Pacific Islander Club back after five years

Posted Nov. 1, 2022

By Reny-Rose Morgan

Cub Reporter

The first Pacific Islander Club in nearly five years is back at David Douglas High School, with plans to host a Cultural Showdown in December before winter break. Unfortunately, school administrators leave the club with a two-week suspension or even permanent cancellation. 

      During the first month of the school year, PI Club President Tuitamaga Keresoma (better known as Anna or TT) got in contact with the club’s advisors Zach, Francella, and Mabel. With the help of all the PIC council members, which consist of Vice President Netti Faleta, Secretary  Reny-Rose Morgan, Treasurers Nia Faleta & Yelimay Esetok, and Media Managers Manatu Faleta & Alana Fuka they were able to start the first meeting. 

The outcome of that first week’s meeting was very positive and all-around good vibes. Games, slides, and snacks were held in Mrs. Fuji’s room 105. On Tuesday and Thursday from 2:50-4:00, the club came up with a list of future activities to do. One of which was already brought up and confirmed by the school “The Cultural Showdown” to be held in December of 2022. 

The news was announced on Oct. 20, 2022  that the club had been suspended due to not having advisors. However, the PIC clearly did. With no valid explanation, the PIC members continued the after-school meetups and started talking about what they should do. Protesting was an option. After agreeing to stay calm, collected, and patient the PIC decided on waiting out the two weeks and seeing what’ll come next. 

The two-week suspension delayed many club activities such as selling candy leis for the senior night football game. Sharing the island culture with the community was a way for the club to raise awareness and money for the upcoming Cultural Showdown. Because there was no candy sale the club had to come up with a new way to raise money. 

“I feel so discouraged. It's the only thing that makes school fun,” said freshman Edina Edmund. 

The club suspension has left many PIC members upset and determined to start the club back up again. 

“We joined because we wanted to learn about the different cultures,” said freshman Junior Herkes.  

“The PIC is the main reason why I look forward to coming to school. It helps me motivate myself to show up," said sophomore Lore-Lay Philip. "Also, the club has made me become more comfortable with my own kind. I hope the school understands how important this really is to us.” 

The two-week suspension is almost up.