A Polynesian Unity Movement started in the 1990s around Texas
Almost all Samoan and Tongan Americans as of 2013 are either 2nd or 1st generations. Even the editor-n-chief of T.M.BW. Ione K. Birdman is a first generation Samoan American coming directly from the island. Samoan and Tongan American community tells Polynesian youth that just started in many areas in the United States "Don't expect an easy ride, you'll have to work for what you want".
Although Samoan Americans have had access to the United States, the mainland is not usually lived on and most Tongans and Samoans return around the ages 35-45. Samoan Americans who work in the military fulfill their tour and then either settle in Hawaii, Australia, or return home to Samoa, because well, no one likes leaving their Pacific Heaven too long.
Although Samoan Americans have had access to the United States, the mainland is not usually lived on and most Tongans and Samoans return around the ages 35-45. Samoan Americans who work in the military fulfill their tour and then either settle in Hawaii, Australia, or return home to Samoa, because well, no one likes leaving their Pacific Heaven too long.
"Samoan community is doing very well in the time frame its been here. The first and second generations are now passing on their experiences for community growth. We have things like Education to really work on if we want to stay"
"If youth want to eat at a new Polynesian restaurant, read more Tongan poetry, see more Samoan movies, wear more Hawaiian American clothes or Tahitian fine fashions then get to work, it's not going to produce itself. And if someone does produce things like Polynesian History who are not Polynesian, be on watch"
"You're not going to be able to learn everything, be everything, even if you study constantly most of your life you'll be strong in some areas and weak in others. That's where friends and team forming and family come in. Find people you trust and who trust you"
"People pass on History, just don't forget to pass on the Good parts of History. The parts where people helped others. The friendships that are usually made before some crazy person ruins it all over money or power. Pass on those songs of unity - those anti-war moments.. Don't forget Woodstock baby"
"Sometimes in life you might need Church or even ENYA or Michael Jackson - Man in The Mirror (yes I said ENYA the 1980's music artist). Life is really really complicated and culture might give you a strong background, but again Life is very complicated and you need many other tools in life to keep moving forward. Be sharp minded"
- Celebrate American Holidays, you won't regret it. And don't forget the Tooth Fairy.
- You're not taking that money with you when you die, no one is, so support your community
- Stay grounded. Don't become so high headed that you start to treat people wrong
- It can be dangerous out there, be responsibly prepared
- Respect your elders, no, Respect ALL elders as much as possible
- Don't be Lazy minded. Push yourself. Advance in your Heart and Mind.
- Bank Smart - Buy Smart
- You can't beat Racism by being Racist
- If you want Respect you gotta show Respect
- Know your LAW - Knows your Rights