Federated States of Micronesia
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) are located about 3,700 miles west-southwest of Hawaii. There are four states, from west to east, they are Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. The four states share some cultural commonalities, but each has their own language and cultural distinctions. People from the FSM will often identify with their home island (Ex. Chuukese, Pohnpeian) more than the term "Micronesian". The population of the FSM is approximately 100,000 people and there are about 85 students from the FSM at Waipahu High School. Almost all are from Chuuk, a few are from Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Yap.
Click on the images below to explore the cultures of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Overview of the Cultures of Micronesia
Broad overview of the history, culture, society, and politics of the FSM.
Traditional CUltural Elements
An introduction to traditional cultural elements, dance, attire, and food & drink across the four states of the FSM.
REL_PA_Getting_to_Know_Pacific_Island_Students.pdfGetting to Know Pacific Island Students
Overview of the Compact of Free Association (COFA), the education systems in the Freely Associated States (FAS), and migration flows from the FAS to the United States.
civil Beat's "The Micronesians" archive
Series of articles on the experiences of Marshallese and Micronesian migrants and their communities in the islands, Hawaii, and the continental US. Includes photo slideshows and podcasts.
RELPA_WhatAretheFreelyAssociatedStates_508 (1).pdfFreely Associated STates Infographic
Overview of the Compact of Freely Associated States (COFA), the treaty agreement between the US and the Freely Associated States. Includes demographic information and suggestions for culturally responsive classroom practices.
REL_PA_Why_Do_Student_Names_Matter (1).pdfWhat's in a name?
Overview of naming conventions in COFA nations, the importance of names, and suggestions for culturally responsive classroom practices.
Helpful Chuukese Phrases
List of greetings and polite expressions compiled by the Leeward District Bilingual School-Home Assistants.
Chuuk Language and Culture School
The Chuuk Language and Culture school of Hawaii was founded by Leeward District bilingual school-home assistant Setiro Paul to connect Chuukese youth with their language and culture.
UH's Micronesians in Hawaii research guide
Recently updated UH Mаnoa library research guide with links to resources on the topics of health, education, social issues, and immigration.
Local organization with the mission of "empowering our Micronesian community to navigate success while honoring the integrity of our diverse heritage." WAO organizes the annual Micronesian Youth Summit and recently opened a Youth Empowerment Center in Liliha.