Samoan Americans are individuals of Samoan descent residing in the United States, originating from both the U.S. territory of American Samoa and the independent nation of Samoa. As of the 2020 U.S. Census, approximately 297,000 people identified as Samoan alone or in combination with other ancestries, making them one of the largest Pacific Islander groups in the country. (en.wikipedia.org)
Demographics and Distribution
The Samoan American population is concentrated in several key regions:
– California: Home to about 63,000 individuals of Samoan origin, with significant communities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the San Francisco Bay Area. (en.wikipedia.org)
– Hawaii: Approximately 37,000 residents of Samoan ancestry live in Hawaii, primarily on the island of Oahu. (en.wikipedia.org)
– Washington State: The Seattle-Tacoma area hosts a sizable Samoan community, especially in cities like Kent, Renton, and Federal Way. (en.wikipedia.org)
– Alaska: Anchorage has a notable Samoan population, comprising about 2% of the city’s residents. (en.wikipedia.org)
Cultural Contributions
Samoan Americans have significantly influenced various aspects of American culture:
– Sports: They have a strong presence in American football, with a per capita rate of NFL players higher than any other group. Notable athletes include Troy Polamalu, Junior Seau, and Marcus Mariota. (en.wikipedia.org)
– Entertainment: Figures like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have achieved international fame, contributing to the prominence of Samoan culture in mainstream media. (en.wikipedia.org)
– Traditional Arts: Practices such as tattooing (tatau), weaving, and carving remain vital, serving as expressions of identity and heritage. (whowhatwear.com)
Citizenship and Legal Status
A unique aspect of the Samoan American experience involves the legal status of individuals born in American Samoa. Unlike other U.S. territories, American Samoans are classified as U.S. nationals, not citizens, which affects their rights, including voting eligibility. This distinction has led to legal challenges and discussions about citizenship rights. (apnews.com)
In summary, Samoan Americans have established vibrant communities across the United States, enriching the nation’s cultural landscape while navigating unique legal and social challenges.
## Recent Developments in Samoan American Communities:
– From Hawaii To Samoa: Tattoos That Go Beyond Skin Deep, Published on Sunday, June 01
– A US territory’s colonial history emerges in state disputes over voting and citizenship, Published on Saturday, June 07