Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Democratic Party commends the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa for its principled stance on protecting God’s creation as the church prepares for its upcoming 36th Assembly centered on the theme, “God Takes Residence in Creation.”

At a time when deep sea mining continues to threaten the Pacific U.S. Territories including the waters surrounding American Samoa, the Party recognizes the importance of faith leaders using their voice to advocate for stewardship, environmental justice, and the protection of future generations.

ASDP Chair Patrick Ti'a Reid stated, “We commend the leaders and Councils of the CCCAS for taking a brave stance and standing with our community and God’s divine creations, our oceans, our cultural heritage, and the future our next generations will inherit.”

The American Samoa Democratic Party has been clear about its opposition to reckless and fast-tracked plans for deep sea mining advanced under President Trump and the current Administration near our surrounding islands. The Party believes that the long-term environmental, cultural, and economic consequences of this unknown industry remain far too great to ignore.

The Party also applauds the continued advocacy efforts of local environmental organizations including Finafinau, Puipui Measina, and Faasao Amerika Samoa for their tireless work educating the public and defending the natural resources and cultural heritage of American Samoa.

ASDP strongly urges local elected leaders, including Congresswoman Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen and the Pula Administration to take stronger action to safeguard the Territory from policies and corporate interests that treat our homes, oceans, and livelihoods as an experiment for an unproven industry.

“We are asking for protection, sustainability, and respect for the ocean that has sustained Pacific peoples for generations.”