Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga proclaimed Martin Luther King Jr. Day — Monday, Jan. 17 —as a holiday in American Samoa.

“Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to honor and commemorate the legacy of Dr. King who made unparalleled contribution to racial justice,” the governor said. “I encourage you all to take time to reflect on his life and values and may it inspire us all to volunteer to help improve our community.”

Several states and the federal government observe this holiday, which is on the third Monday of January.

With the declared holiday, ASG offices are closed today and employees get the day off. Employees required to perform duty on that day will receive holiday wages in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Today is also the ASG payday, but no information was available at press time as to whether or not payroll  — the paper checks — would be released this past Friday. Employees with direct-deposit got pay in their bank accounts — as usually — over the weekend.

Others in the private sector are also closed today including the two local financial institutions. However, StarKist Samoa, the largest private employer in the territory, is working Monday as production increases for the cannery.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Samoa News is not publishing a print edition today, but will return on Tuesday.

CONGRESSWOMAN UIFA'ATALI AMATA'S STATEMENT

“This day has deep meaning for all people who love opportunity and equality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to great ideals, and his words still inspire today. His speeches and writings continue to apply throughout the decades. He worked for lasting change through persuasion, appealing to hearts and minds. His ways were peaceful but powerful. He reminded us to love our neighbors, and debate passionately, while seeking peace and unity.

“One of his many memorable quotations is a favorite of mine, ‘The time is always right to do what is right.’ We appreciate the legacy of Dr. King.”

Uifa'atali Amata with Dr. Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. [courtesy photo]