Celebrating Samoan Flag Day at the Capitol

Representative Karen Awana joined Nanakuli youth on April 17, 2009 to celebrate the day which marks the anniversary of American Samoa becoming a U.S. Territory. This day is known as Flag Day amongst Samoans who gather to celebrate with song, dance, sports and traditional foods.

This year at the Hawaii State Capitol, the American Samoan flag, Hawaii flag and United States flag were raised on the grounds to commemorate the day Captain B.F. Tilley of the U.S. Navy raised the American flag on Samoan soil.

Youth from Nanakuli Wesleyan Methodist Church closed the special event held on grounds of the Capitol with traditional Samoan song and dance numbers. Rep. Awana and other supporters also joined in the celebration with a dance number.

Other lawmakers at the event included Senators Mike Gabbard, Josh Green and Suzanne Chun Oakland, and Representatives Karl Rhoades, Rida Cabanilla and Gene Ward. Former American Samoa legislator Afimutasi Gus Hannemann was also present.

Photo: Rep. Karen Awana with youth members of the Nanakuli Wesleyan Methodist Church