Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Gov. Lemanu P. S. Mauga and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata yesterday issued separate statements on Thanksgiving 2024, the official start of the holiday season.

In his annual Thanksgiving message, the governor noted that, “As we celebrate this season of Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you, the people of American Samoa.

“Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings that enrich our lives the love of family, the strength of community, and the steadfast faith that carries us through every challenge. It is a time to come together, to share our gratitude, and to remember the values that connect us as a people.

“I am deeply thankful for the resilience, unity, and spirit of service that define our territory. Together, we have faced challenges with courage and determination, and together, we continue to build a brighter future for our children and generations to come.

“As you gather with your loved ones, I encourage you to celebrate not only the blessings of today but also the traditions, culture, and shared history that make American Samoa so special. Let us give thanks for the opportunities ahead and renew our commitment to one another and to our beloved homeland.

“On behalf of Lieutenant Governor La'apui and our families, we wish you al both here and abroad a very happy and safe "Thanksgiving Day!"

In her statement, Uifa’atali began by quoting, Psalm 69:30 ~ I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.

“This brief verse in the book of Psalms is one of many special thanksgiving verses in the Bible, and it reminds me so much of our people, who dearly love to sing from early childhood and all through life. We are grateful for our beautiful islands, which are a touch of paradise.

“Have a blessed Thanksgiving! This year, I will see my family in the Washington, D.C. area as Congress has a busy schedule immediately after the holiday week. Over the next few weeks, Congress must complete a government funding extension into next year; an extension of the important Farm Bill, which supports grants and programs for American Samoa; the yearly Defense bill which authorizes pay for our military; and a Coast Guard authorization that includes my House-passed South Pacific Tuna Treaty Act.

“May you have a wonderful and relaxing time with family or close friends, and share delicious food that reminds us of the goodness of God. May our hearts and homes be full of happiness and love this Thanksgiving!”

With Thanksgiving Day a local and federal holiday, all ASG offices are closed, as well as many businesses in the territory including the Territorial Bank of American Samoa.

Friday is called “Black Friday” across the U.S and American Samoa will have its own, with local businesses holding special discount sales.

In celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, Samoa News will not publish on Thursday.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving American Samoa from staff and management of Samoa News.