“Stand with the Moana” demonstration calls on feds to listen to Samoan voices
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A different approach to expressing strong opposition to deep‑sea mining in American Samoa’s waters took shape along the Utulei shoreline last Thursday, where yo

![“Stand with the Moana” (Stand with the Ocean) organized by Finafinau was held on Manu’a Day — Thursday, July 16, 2026 — rooted in Pacific values, participants gathered along the Utulei shoreline dressed in blue, offered flowers to the ocean, observed a moment of silence, and reflected on the moana’s role as a source of life, culture, identity, and the wellbeing of future generations. [photo: AF] Stand with the moana](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/stand_with_the_moana3.jpg?itok=inLUsCrI)
![American Samoa fale fono entrance. [SN file photo] FONO logo](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/new_fono_bldg_logo_1.jpg?itok=4O8sVof_)






![Manu’atele commemorated the 22nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day last week culminating in an official program held in the Manu’a Islands, honoring the historic signing of the Deed of Cession. [photo: ASG] Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula and First Lady](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/manua_gov.jpg?itok=2VNKtVOP)
![Youth Developmental Professional Irene assists BGCAS Music Club members on how to string their ukuleles. [photo: BGCAS] Irene assists BGCAS Music Club members learn how to string their ukuleles.](https://samoanews.com/sites/default/files/styles/teaser/public/field/image/30.jpg?itok=Z7Fo4kK3)