Here are some recent developments concerning Pacific Islander Americans in the United States:
Political Milestones
– Historic Elections in Utah and California: Verona Sag-Mauga was elected to the Utah House of Representatives, becoming the first Pacific Islander/Samoan woman to hold a state legislative office. Additionally, David Tangipa, of Tongan descent, was elected as a California State Assemblymember, marking another significant first for the Pacific Islander community. (npien.com)
– American Samoa’s Gubernatorial Election: In November 2024, Pula Nikolao Pula was elected governor of American Samoa, defeating incumbent Lemanu Peleti Mauga in a runoff election. Pula’s victory made him the first Republican governor of American Samoa since Peter Tali Coleman. (en.wikipedia.org)
Cultural Celebrations
– ‘When 2 Worlds Collide’ Event at UCLA: In February 2025, the American Indian and Pacific Islander Living Learning Community at UCLA hosted “When 2 Worlds Collide,” an event celebrating Native and Pasifika cultures through performances, food, and art. The event aimed to highlight the diversity and richness of these communities. (dailybruin.com)
Health Disparities
– Cancer Mortality Rates: A report released in May 2024 by the American Cancer Society highlighted that Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander populations in the U.S. have cancer death rates two to three times higher than those of white Americans. The report emphasized the need for targeted health interventions and awareness campaigns to address these disparities. (usnews.com)
Community Advocacy
– Opposition to Higher Education Funding Cuts: A poll conducted in April 2025 by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that a majority of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults oppose cutting federal funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in higher education. The survey also revealed strong opposition to deporting students involved in campus protests. (apnews.com)
## Recent News on Pacific Islander American Developments:
– Most AAPI adults oppose college funding cuts and student deportations, a new poll finds, Published on Wednesday, May 21
– Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are still targets of hatred 5 years after pandemic surge, Published on Thursday, March 27
– Many older AAPI adults are foreign-born. They’re tough on immigration too, a new poll finds, Published on Wednesday, April 09