The legacy of a once great and proud people!

Today the remnants from five different occupational periods occupy the island nations in the Marianas/Micronesian region of Pacifica. A history of time that rivals that of Egypt and Mesopotamia, the history of the “Chamorro”! It is said that these people developed unique skills in seafaring, aqueous farming, agriculture, and to carve huge, mushroom-like pillars of stone from solid rock known today as latte or taga stones.

The valiant existed some 3,000 years as rulers of their own destiny, only to fall under the flags of Spain, Germany, Japan, the United Nations, and the United States. History is told that the Spanish brought religion through Christianity to the islands; the Germans built the coconut oil commerce; the Japanese expanded the agricultural and industrial development, and the Americans brought welfare, oh, the concept of self-government. No, WELFARE!

What has happened to this mighty Pacific empire? What has the toils of being enslaved or occupied by foreign governments left for the peoples of the Marianas? One only has to look at the plight of the African-Americans to see the road less traveled. The famed Willie Lynch (who wrote and created the system to break the spirit/morale of man, hence lynching) stated, “When you free the negro, it will take them more than 400 years before they learn to free their minds!” What shall be the legacy of the Chamorro?

The Marianas, a place that could easily rival that of Hawaii, has succumbed to the failures and depravity of those entrusted to serve and protect them. Virtually every form of structure thrives from the downfall inflicted on others. The plantation is alive and well as any one person with an ounce of authority is deemed a “boss,” a throwback to colonial days. It has been demonstrated that Saipan is only supportive of its own. Look at Rota and Tinian and the lack of economic support/growth. Removal of a working population rather than learning the structures of taxing to boost the economy. Nonexisting/unenforced labor laws. A society that prides itself on not having rabies yet has hundreds, maybe more, dogs running around spreading mange. The youth and citizens robbing one another and the tourist as well.

It is said that you can tell a great deal about a business, industry, or government by looking at the cleanliness of their bathrooms and surroundings of their buildings. Need I say more?

I hear Bob Marley being played daily, almost hourly, please listen to his words. Rise, ye mighty people. You have the power of the vote. Remove those that rob the very government dollars sent to boost and rebuild the economy. All islands come together to be a collective voice. Celebrate the Chamorro/Carolinian and Micronesian heritage and rule with integrity and decorousness. The youth deserves better. The citizens, regardless of parental nationality, deserve better. Regardless of what “title” government funding comes, do the right thing for your people!