Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Republican Party of American Samoa (RPAS) is pleased to announce its annual Coleman – Eisenhower Dinner, scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, at DDW Restaurant in Pago Pago, with doors opening at 5:00 PM. Tickets are $60 per person.

Members of the community, friends, and supporters are invited to join this special evening of historical reflection, fellowship, dinner, and live entertainment. All are welcome.

This year's celebration holds special historical significance as American Samoa commemorates several important milestones in the Territory's political and constitutional development.

Honoring 70 Years of Samoan Leadership

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower appointed Peter Tali Coleman Governor of American Samoa, making him the first person of Samoan ancestry to serve in that office.

The historic appointment represented an important turning point in American Samoa's political development, opening the door to greater local leadership and ultimately paving the way toward democratic self-government.

Governor Coleman would later become American Samoa's first popularly elected Governor in 1977 and serve three terms as Governor. He was also the founding chairman of the Republican Party of American Samoa.

Recognizing 60 Years Since the 1966 Constitutional Convention

The year 2026 also marks the 60th anniversary of American Samoa's historic 1966 Constitutional Convention, a defining milestone in the Territory's journey toward greater self-governance.

The convention helped shape the Revised Constitution of American Samoa, which took effect on July 1, 1967, and remains the foundation of the Territory's constitutional government.

Governor Peter Tali Coleman played an important leadership role in this historic process, helping establish the constitutional framework that continues to guide American Samoa today.

RPAS recognizes the importance of Constitution Day and the enduring significance of American Samoa's Constitution, flag, and anthem as symbols of the Territory's identity, heritage, and political progress.

These milestones remind us that American Samoa's political development has been shaped by generations of leaders committed to protecting our culture, strengthening our institutions, and advancing the interests of our people.

Honoring the Legacy of Senator Alo Stevenson

This year's gathering will also include a special tribute to the late Senator Alo Dr. Paul Stevenson, who helped lead and organize the annual Coleman – Eisenhower Dinner since its inception.

His dedication, leadership, and commitment to preserving this important tradition helped make the dinner a cherished annual gathering for the Republican Party of American Samoa.

His contributions to public service and the Republican Party of American Samoa will be remembered and celebrated.

A Celebration of History, Leadership, and Community

The Coleman – Eisenhower Dinner provides an opportunity to reflect on the individuals and historic events that helped shape modern American Samoa while celebrating the enduring values of public service, leadership, opportunity, and stronger communities.