Ahead of the 2020 General Election, Prutehi Litekyan: Save Ritidian (PLSR) invited all political candidates to take part in our candidate survey on sustainability, cultural justice issues and the environment.

A small subcommittee of volunteers* developed seven questions for the candidates.

*Former PLSR members who are candidates did not participate in the development of the questions nor did they view the questions in advance.

The survey was emailed to all senatorial and congressional candidates. Subsequent phone calls and e-mails were made to remind and encourage candidates to respond by the deadline. Seventeen senatorial candidates responded.

The seven* senatorial candidates who DID NOT respond include:

Joseph Cruz
David Duenas
Sandra Reyes Seau
John Ananich
Dominic Hernandez
Senator Jose (Pedo) Terlaje
Christopher Duenas

*Senators Tina Muna-Barnes and Joe San Agustin were originally listed above but responded shortly after we posted our survey results. The list has been revised to reflect their submissions.

Two of three congressional candidates responded to the survey. Mike San Nicolas, who has been an opponent of Prutehi Litekyan efforts for years, did not respond.

PLSR wishes to express disappointment with the lack of responses to these critical questions from the nine aforementioned senatorial and congressional candidates.

Un Dangkulo' Na Si Yu'os Ma'åse' to all candidates who responded to our survey. Communication with constituents should be the cornerstone of every single political office.

Thank you to all supporters for choosing protectors at the polls!

Q1

Name:

Vicente (Tony) Ada

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator , Republican Party

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I certainly support local food production and distribution. Food sovereignty, however, is multifaceted and there are different versions of the concept. The development of food sovereignty must take into consideration food security, food safety, and the multicultural nature of Guam’s community.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I support the right of Chamorros to determine our political status. How this can be done, however, has yet to be determined. I don’t know that changes to Guam law would satisfy both the proponents of Chamorro-only vote and the non-discriminatory laws of the U.S. It is a difficult situation where we wish to operate outside the laws of the U.S. while being a part of the U.S.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Many of the goals of sustainability have been have been in development on Guam for many years. We have enjoyed successes on many fronts. As with many issues, more must be done to achieve island sustainability. I support the work of the University of Guam and the Center for Island Sustainability in particular for the efforts in this regard.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I support the relocation of Marines from Okinawa to Guam for a number of reasons, not the least of which is economic in nature. I believe, however, that the military build-up related to this relocation must be done in a manner that is sensitive to and protective of cultural sites and environment to the degree possible.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I would work to ensure that the spirit of the settlement agreement between the U.S. Department of Justice and GovGuam be made both as a matter of Guam law and the CLTC rules.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I support the Guam Waterworks Authority’s efforts to upgrade our water distribution system that has been plagued by water loss due to leakage. These upgrades and repairs would help mitigate damage to our aquifer due to population increase and prolonged draught.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The overall population increase that will result from the Marine relocation to Guam is nowhere near the initial projections. Also, the projected rapid economic activity related to military construction has not and will not meet those early projections. As things stand now, an increase in construction will preserve jobs.

Q1

Name:

Kelly G. Marsh (Taitano)

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator; Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Food sovereignty is important in numerous ways. It is making sure that we have enough food to meet our physical needs. Further, locally cultivated foodstuffs allows communities to reclaim their power in the food system. Food becomes more affordable thus more accessible, as well as is healthier and better tasting. Locally cultivated foodstuffs provides jobs and income to our local farmers, fishers, and other food providers.

For an Indigenous people such as CHamorus as well as to those who are Indigenous in the region, food sovereignty also allows them to rebuild the relationships with the land, traditional foods, and each other; recognition of this was part of the reasoning of the Hawaiian Homestead Act.

We have potential to continue to develop our agriculture and aquaculture, while at the same time, there have been other interests as well, such as poultry farming. We can have success at many levels. People can grow gardens or cultivate family ranches, which many have begun to do during the pandemic. Others grow more commercially, as farmers and as companies. Some of this success has been with hydroponics which should have potential to expand. I also see potential with some of our newer industries such as cannabis to cultivate cooperatively which may be a good model for those assuming CHamoru Land Trust lands. In this way, those assuming homesteads can grow single types of crops to better fulfill demands, or can diversify among each other to provide variety. They can also perhaps share labor and equipment.

Within our region, Taiwan is a bed of research in both agriculture and aquaculture. We can certainly gain from building partnerships with them. Our neighbor Palau has some successful models for shrimp, fish, and crab farms that we can learn from. Additionally, the University of Guam already has an aquaculture development and training center which is a hatchery for shrimp, tilapia, and catfish. There are two sets of models that we can consider for ourselves. Taiwan and Palau have hatcheries to replenish their fish and clam stocks so that the islands continue to be sustainable traditional food resources. Shrimp, tilapia, and catfish farms would increase the availability of non-traditional foods, creating less reliance on their importation.

I see potential within the Marianas, within Micronesia, and Island Southeast Asia, to develop our island and regional food security. If elected Senator for the next term, one of my goals is to work further to develop a formal and organized system of importing and exporting among each other. We already receive taro, yams, string beans, and more from Luta (Rota) which has expanded its economy in the last several years through agriculture. We receive fish from neighboring islands like Palau as well as some of their local foods like apigige’ and stuffed land crab (billum and ukaeb in Palauan).

Traditionally, peoples of the Marianas and Micronesia have long shared and traded foodstuffs. The broader that network exists, the broader the security to survive different situations that challenge local food production.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

As a Senator with oversight of Regional Affairs, I belong to the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures. At the first gathering, I introduced a resolution “Calling upon and urging the United States to uphold its commitment towards the Decolonization and Self Determination of Guam”. This was important to do as, at the time, who had the right vote in the plebiscite for self-determination for Guåhan was being challenged in US courts.

As Pacific Islanders who have similar Indigenous cultures and American (for the most part) colonial histories, they uniquely had the ability to understand why self-determination and decolonization are so important for CHamorus to achieve. Having gone through similar self-determination processes recently themselves, they were intimately familiar with what was being challenged in court. It was a powerful moment when they unanimously supported the resolution. As a leader, in order to understand current issues, where they come from and how they developed over time, it is important to know the history of the people and the island of our community. Three US non-self-governing territories together constitute 20% of the recognized areas still to self-determine from a list of 80-100 or so, is sobering in many ways. When I traveled to the Fourth Committee of the United Nations last year to testify, all this history weighed heavily on me. To see so many that have moved ahead towards the next steps in their political development, while Guam remains a non-self-governing territory. It is so troubling that 74 years after the US itself placed Guåhan on that list of non-self-governing territories, true self-governance through decolonization has still not yet been achieved.

In brief, in 1565, when Legaspi claimed Laguas yan Gåni for Spain, it was done so without the knowledge or consent of i manaotao mo’na (ancestors of today’s Indigenous CHamoru People). In 1698, after the Spanish missionized via a mixture of ‘volunteerism’, coercion, and force and after carrying out the reducción, they officially established a colonial government that administered the ‘Mariana Islands’ for 200 years, without the explicit consent of the people. In 1898, as spoils of war, Spain ceded just Guåhan to the United States (US), without the consent of the CHamoru People. Thereafter, there were 20 years of court rulings referred to as the Insular cases that determined that US territories could be Unincorporated, meaning, held as properties to be resided on by peoples who would only receive the rights and benefits unilaterally determined for them by the US Congress. After ruling Guåhan and its people by military government for some 50 years, and after much effort on the part of the people of Guåhan and others around the world to secure any kind of right or protection for the peoples of Guåhan, the US unilaterally made decisions regarding conferring US citizenship for the people of Guåhan.

It is these series of political decisions of colonial administration, claims of ownership of the island, claims of Guåhan being something owned as a possession, as well as the unilateral determination of political status, citizenship, and rights of CHamorus that self-determination is to address. The act of finally, after hundreds of years of others claiming sovereignty over them, deciding their political status for themselves will be a major step toward decolonization.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Guam's Green Growth (G3) initiative focuses on our island economy, social issues, and environmental challenges. It is important that it does so as being self-reliant is much more than being kinder to the environment. As an island leader, I have consistently promoted and supported meaningful policy to further the sustainability of our island. This has ranged from economic considerations such as providing tax relief to small businesses and increasing the minimum wage. I have tackled social issues holding a series of roundtables to arrive at social science understandings and solutions to crime, drug abuse, and other social ills. I wrote bills that ensured CHamorus have a voice in telling their story to the world, recognize local heroes who have stood up for Guam, created structure and order for the Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency, and am always looking to write and support bills that protect our most vulnerable in their various walks of life. Further, I have written, co-sponsored, and consistently voted for bills that require the government to buy energy efficient products, incentivize zero emissions vehicles, pave the way for GDOE to enter into renewable energy agreements, and more. Zero waste convert waste into resources that will fuel a green economy.

More directly, I have updated our Comprehensive Development Plan with sustainable principles which is scheduled to be on the session floor in September and should be passed into law shortly thereafter. This update requires the development plan to be informed by the work of the Guam Green Growth initiative, the Climate Change commissions, and other such work. Further, to the degree feasible, it is to be guided by the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals as well as the Global Plan of Action for Small Island Developing States. While so doing, the plan is updated to recognize CHamorus as Indigenous and their connections and rights to the island. The update focus on social justice by stating that the plan shall address disparities in socio-economic status, affordable and accessible health care, as well as substandard housing and homelessness. It also expands the consideration of environments by adding in focus on coral reef, threatened and endangered native species, protection of rare, natural communities, and more as well as concepts toward achieving renewable energy and zero waste.

I have many more visions for further such work that tackle economic and social issues as well as work to resolve some of our environmental challenges.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

While development is part of our reality, we must take the time to protect and preserve that which makes Guåhan special. Our children and grandchildren deserve an island no less special, if not better than the one we grew up in. Yet, unfortunately, that has not always been the guiding principle, nor is it the guiding principle for everyone now.

Cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites, and native and vernacular landscapes are precious. Once they are removed or otherwise destroyed, they will never be as they once were. Special ancestral areas such as Magua', Tailålo', Litekyan, Haputo, and Talågi are to be treasured. They are were CHamoru ancestors once walked, fished, hunted, cultivated, loved, laughed, played, and lived out their lives.

Tailålo' was either part of the coastal village of Litekyan, or was a neighboring village that had a special relationship with taotao Litekyan. As such, it is connected to one of the oldest sites in Laguas yan Gåni (the Mariana Islands). It is a sacred site accorded special significance for its age and its particular history.

It is a site of some of the last small percentage of pristine limestone forest which took thousands of years to form and within which plants and animals adapted and evolved to occur in specific that specific ecosystem. In addition to all that is precious within it, the fanihi, the ababang, the various other native wildlife, much of which is threatened or endangered, is the last remaining, mature and seeding håyun lågu. It is unspeakable that these are to be either cut down to attempt to be replicated elsewhere, translocated, or left as a small, struggling corridor to try to survive amidst the sound of 6.7 million bullets a year, as is that sacred landscape which in CHamoru culture should be a place of quiet respect, will, nearly every day of the year, instead be where the cacophonic sound of more than 20,000 rounds will crack through the air.

The site of Tailålo' was assessed by the military itself in its SEIS to be the most destructive and damaging site to select both in its construction and during its operation. There is no need for 5 more ranges in an island that has 4 or more ranges already, any of which could be expanded to some degree. There is no need for more ranges when the military has built indoor ranges elsewhere. There is no need for more ranges when the military can train through simulators.

What they chose as a site that was convenient for them, is our loss. What was there that has been bulldozed or dismantled for ‘data recovery’ is forever gone.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

As a Senator with oversight of Regional Affairs, I belong to the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures. At the first gathering in Yap during my term, I introduced three resolutions, one of which was, “Supporting the land rights of the Native Chamorros of Guam, the mission of the Chamorro Land Trust Commission, and all efforts in protecting and preserving the land and all other natural resources in Guam.” It was important to have the Chamorro Land Trust (CLT) and the Commission (CLTC), and all that they stand for, be reaffirmed. At the time, the CLT was being sued by the U.S. government for racial discrimination and violation of Fair Housing Act which has yet to be fully resolved.

Fellow legislators from independent Micronesian nations (including Kiribati), Hawaii, and American Samoa, understood and stood in solidarity with the CHamorus of Guåhan. That moment of standing together, Islanders across many nations and cultures who had similar yet distinct histories was a powerful one that I was very humbled to be part of. As a leader, it is important to know the history of the people and the island of our community. In this, one understands the colonial injustices that have occurred over the centuries and how it came to be that, as is the case for Indigenous Peoples around the globe and throughout the Pacific, CHamorus find themselves landless and too often homeless in their own homeland.

It is these injustices for CHamorus and others here at the time of early US administration during which people were dislocated from the land, that the Chamorro Land Trust, serves to offer relief to. Similar to the Hawaiian Homestead Act, this is also a means to reconnect people to the land, and to living off the land.

It is unfortunate that for so long this program that was created to redress an injustice and offer hope and a chance at a better life to many left landless by the changes that have come about in postwar Guam, has been plagued with so many issues of corruption and incompetence. As leaders we have to treat it with the same purpose and dignity in which it was created. No more questionable use of CLT land for commercial projects that don’t benefit I taotao tåno’. No more questionable leases for relatives of powerful political figures. I commend the outgoing director of the CLT Pika Fejeran for doing a great deal to terms of setting the CLT on a new course and with a new tone.

What CLT has lacked for so long is regular enforcement of leases and also support for those that receive the leases. We have heard for decades now about land being provided to individuals who have no means to cover the cost of even connecting utilities to lands deep in the jungle. Those with CLT leases can become the cornerstone of creating a more circular economy with a higher level of food security, if the government is able to provide the infrastructure to encourage it. With an eye towards encouraging sustainable and organic farming techniques, Guam could become a model for Pacific agriculture, and we see the long held dream of a local Green Revolution realized. I spoke about some of these possibilities in the initial question.

The late Speaker Ben Pangelinan, once said “Anggen ta mantieni i tano’, ta susteni i taotao,” (If we hold onto the land, we sustain the people) I believe this still represents the promise and hope for the CLT, and I am committed to helping realize this simple, beautiful, sustainable truth.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

In Guam we are so blessed to have a strong aquifer that can sustain life. We have seen in the past how not respecting and valuing the gift of a fresh water aquifer can have in the case of Saipan, and we also are reminded of the blessing of having an abundance of water on Guam compared to other islands where rising tides and global warming are being to threaten the ability to live there. We should not be thoughtless or careless about i hanom i isla.

As a community advocate and an elected leader I have worked to educate the community about the need to protect the Northern Guam Lens Aquifer (NGLA) from the threats that the buildup represents. Not only will the millions of bullets and other explosives possibly contaminate the water supply, but the need to build new wells to tap into the aquifer to meet the needs of those living in new base housing may result in over-pumping. Both of these and other concerns threaten to damage the water quality of the NGLA. I’ve used my office to help get out critical information to the community and assisted in helping people write and submit comments.

The mitigation offered by the US military is plainly insufficient to address the concerns I, community groups, and other leaders have expressed. This is part of a larger problem that we face in terms of our relationship to the US military in Guam and the US in general. There are processes where we can comment, but the time periods are too short, the reports and memos are not written for general public consumption, and more often than not, our reservations and concerns are too readily dismissed, and not given due consideration as is required by the intent of the law. Time and again, we hear how the most destructive choice is selected in the face of less damaging options.

The US military says they are using a “One Guam” approach to the buildup and other issues. The pace at which this buildup has been carried out, the lack of transparency, the lack of accountability and the lack of any real partnership or cooperation, shows that in truth the One Guam approach is very one-sided. I have sought to be a loud and firm voice in terms of calling out the US military on these issues, whether it is insufficient mitigation, threats to our sacred sites, or even not giving just accommodation to our veterans in terms of commissary access during a pandemic. Because of our current political status we aren’t provided any real voice, and in so many ways, we shown over and again, that we matter less. That is why using our voice and empowering the community to ask these questions about how their island is being negatively impacts and also speak loudly their own truths is essential.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The military buildup offers some economic benefits to the island, but these benefits tend to be smaller than advertised and skewed to a handful of people and not beneficial for the majority of the island. A small number of contractors receive small contracts, while the majority of the money goes to off-island firms who pay marginal taxes and take the rest off-island with them when they are done. The buildup doesn’t put much directly into our community economically and the trade offs in terms of loss of cultural resources, natural habitats, and access to sacred areas is significant. Rarely do people consider the fact that the bases take up 1/3 of the island and has severe restrictions, which inhibits our economic and community planning ability.

The boomtown effect is something that we have to be particularly cautious about. For so many on Guam today, even prior to the pandemic, they were living paycheck to paycheck, they were struggling to afford their basic needs for life. The buildup wouldn’t necessarily help those families. What the boomtown impact would likely lead to is more speculative investment by those that have the money and means, and that would likely lead to increases in costs of living, especially in terms of housing. This is something that we saw clearly when the buildup was first announced 15 years ago. There was a rush to buy land, to build houses, to push out local tenants and make way for military tenants that can pay more in rent. We saw housing costs skyrocket and rents rise as well. Here we are today, 10-15 years later, over a billion dollars have been spent, where are the noticeable benefits from the spending of that billion dollars?

For these and other reasons I don’t see the military buildup as a solid or reliable economic driver. The world is going in the direction of more sustainable and circular means of economic development, and we should too. We should pursue small and locally focused business models that employ people here, that pay taxes here, that spend their money here, that contribute to the overall growth and development of the island here. I’ve worked to streamline and reactivate things like the Guam Product Seal Task Force, to create a stronger infrastructure to support locally-minded and locally invested entrepreneurs.

We’ve had a couple of generations of haphazard development and economic growth without a mind towards sustainability or preservation of our island’s culture and sense of community. The feeling that the buildup is like an economic golden ticket is tied to that sense of feeling like we are less, and that our sense of worth and economic viability can only come from others bringing their money and recognition to us. I am hopeful that we can put that way of thinking to rest. As I an elected leader I see part of my role as pushing for more locally-focused and -invested programs, whether it be for small businesses or native plants. Across several questions I’ve highlight the need for agriculture to be central to this shift in economic priorities, but small businesses that build up our brand, promote zero waste, and keep our community healthy, educated, engaged and empowered are just as critical.

While serving in I Liheslaturan Guåhan I have been the oversight chair for different government agencies that promote the arts and humanities. I strongly believe that part of this new more locally-invested economy will have a strong knowledge component, that it can be something that comes from our intelligence, our culture, our creativity and not just our location. Studies right now are showing that what people desire in this COVID-19 world, is authenticity of place and people.

Q1

Name:

Amanda Shelton

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator

Democratic Party of Guam

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Food sovereignty and sustainability can start in our backyards and by supporting our local farmers and fisherman. If there is one blessing that has come out of the COVID-19 crisis, it is the lesson learned that sustainability and food security is more important than ever.

I will continue to advocate for our institutions of higher education and agriculture programs contributing to increasing the island’s food security. These institutions also provide meaningful opportunities for future generations to learn about the importance of food sovereignty and sustainable island lessons that can be put into practice.

I also support investments into our local agriculture and aquaculture industries to promote a circular economy reliant on our workers and goods instead of heavy reliance on imports.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I believe in the CHamoru right to self-determination and will support and empower our people to move toward decolonization. The Chamoru right to self-determination means Guam will have opportunity to truly right the wrongs of colonization. I believe in our future and the ability of our island to stand on our own. The people of Guam are strong and resilient and groomed as a people to be able to do this. This is such an impactful issue for our island that affects everything, and I think we have to seriously look forward and continue educating the people of Guam on the process and importance. We must strengthen our efforts to ensure that all the people of Guam are given the proper representation they deserve and the opportunity to determine the way we wish to be governed.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Economic recovery and island sustainability will be the biggest struggles we face as an island in the coming years. I fully support GovGuam’s 10 year action plan on sustainability while recognizing that sustainability is about more than just protect our environment. Achieving sustainability for Guam means focusing on the wellbeing of our people, our culture, and economy as well.

As a first term senator, I authored Public Law 35-46 increase Guam’s renewable energy portfolio to 100% by 2045, provided funding for over 200 summer youth internships, and passed legislation to protect our manamko from financial exploitation. I also led the effort to provide financial support to young students and dependents with disabilities through the only local legislative economic stimulus package in response to COVID-19. My platform has always been about helping people by advocating for our manamko, providing meaningful pathways for our youth, and protecting our environment. I remain committed to carrying out these goals in support of Guam’s 10-year action plan.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

Our land and resources are sacred. The environment is the foundation we stand on as an island.

We must critically consider what it is that we intend to give to our children and the future generations of Guam who stand to inherit the future that we build today.

The further degradation of these historical sites would be an injustice to the CHamoru people. We must continue our efforts to elevate the voices of the people of Guam defense of our environment and history. It is our duty as inheritors of the land to protect what has been left behind by those who have come before us and to fully understand through research and study, the path that led us to where we are today.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I fully support the mission of the Chamorro Land Trust to hold and protect Chamorro homelands for its beneficiaries and exercise diligence and uphold their fiduciary responsibility in the management of Chamorro homelands. I will support legislation and GovGuam’s efforts to ensure transparency is prioritized to increase the number of leases issued, and ensure politics are removed from the equation.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

The Northern Guam Lens Aquifer is critical life-line, providing around 80% of our islands drinking water. It is the duty of the leaders and elected officials of Guam to ensure that the voices of the people are heard. It is doubly important for us to protect Guam’s largest water source. I will continue to work with my colleagues to bring the local agencies to the table and produce a comprehensive action plan that maintains and protects the Northern Lens Aquifer ability to provide safe drinking water to our community. I am committed to ensuring any potential damage to the aquifer is properly mitigated and our people’s access to water is preserved and respected.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

I support healthy and sustainable economic growth for Guam. Our current reality leaves little room for disruption in our current economic industries. That is why I support diversifying our economy and investing in sustainable industries such as agriculture and telecommunications to allow for greater independence.

Q1

Name:

Telena Cruz Nelson

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator, 36th Guam Legislature - Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Our people are the sons and daughters of lancheros (farmers) and peskadots (fishers), and descendants of the indigenous people of Guåhan who fully enjoyed the richness and resiliency of food sovereignty in everyday life. Generations of islanders have been taught farming and fishing traditions that were passed down, like family heirlooms, to ensure not only the continuity of native knowledge, but also the legacy and livelihoods of the CHamoru people. These are practices we continue to pass down today, although not nearly at the same scale as our Pacific ancestors. Today, it is clear to see that while many respectfully reap the benefits of our land and sea to feed their families and sustain their livelihoods, we also have come to rely on international supply chains and the large-scale food industry. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic has proven, now is the time to reimagine and reinvigorate our local food provider industry. The pandemic has disrupted supply chains across the world, but even harder-hit were large-scale food suppliers that rely on international distributors affected by travel bans and increased shipping restrictions. Our people experienced the impact of this firsthand, alongside many communities across the world at the start of the pandemic, due to disrupted food supply and distribution systems. We received food shipments later and in fewer quantities, which wouldn’t have been a concern if our island could rely on local food production.

We can support food sovereignty and address this from a policy perspective through a number of ways:

• Reject the notion that food is simply a commodity for international business and place the significance of the right to healthy and sustainable food at the center of all food, agriculture, aquaculture, livestock and fishery policy discussions

• Value the local farmers, fishers and food providers who grow, harvest, process and distribute food, and reject policies that threaten their livelihoods

• Support policies that bring food providers and consumers closer together, and that localize Guam’s food systems, which feed into the local economy and make healthy food more accessible and sustainable for our people

• Support policies that grow the local food provider community, which in turn provides more job opportunity to the local population and contributes to the local economy

• Support policies that promote diverse agricultural production, harvesting and fishing methods that minimize damage to local ecosystems and improve the resilience of crops and harvests

We can start walking this road by building and developing our capacity to empower local farmers and fishers, the foundation of our agriculture and aquaculture industries. We can forge a fair local food provider industry and island community that embraces food sovereignty and promotes solidarity. We can do all this and more to bridge the sustainable and culturally significant values of our past with the present-day demand and diversity of our community.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

For more than 120 years, Guåhan has held the status of unincorporated territory. Without going into detail, our island was deemed “unincorporated” by the U.S. Supreme Court after political authority was transferred to the U.S. from Spain at the end of the Spanish American War in 1898. Unlike incorporated territories, the labeling of our unincorporated status left Guåhan without the full application or protections of the U.S. Constitution or any predetermined political path forward. Since then, the U.S. Congress has allowed Guam to remain in its unincorporated status, despite defined action in the Treaty of Paris, which formally ceded Guam to the U.S., that states, “political and civil rights of the native inhabitants (of Guåhan) will be determined by Congress.” It wasn’t until 1950, when Congress passed the Organic Act, that our people received U.S. citizenship and increased self-governance, including our own judicial system, a presidentially appointed governor, our locally elected Guam Legislature, and a non-voting delegate to Congress. While this gave more power and privilege to Guåhan, we would not be given the right to elect our own governor until 1968 and, to date, our delegate remains largely representative in nature and cannot vote on legislation, even those with direct impact to our island. Additionally, Congress has the authority to overturn any of our local laws, pass laws on behalf of Guåhan and determine what parts of the Constitution apply to our island. This political structure remains today and there have been several political status, self-determination and decolonization commissions created to address our people’s ongoing quest for political justice. There have been numerous attempts in our history to create dialogue with Congress and federal authorities in Washington D.C. on Guåhan’s political status and decolonization efforts. However, despite political status referendums and formally drafted political status measures, federal officials have historically opposed CHamoru self-determination and draft policies addressing the issue. Most recently, the 9th Circuit of the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Guåhan’s latest political status plebiscite attempt and now the next steps remain unclear, although our current governor has expressed moving forward with a revised plebiscite. No matter the course we take, we must be inspired by our ancestors and draw from within ourselves the strength to see CHamoru self-determination enacted in our lifetime. Although our island has not received considerable congressional or federal support on the issue, the United Nations Charter states that all peoples have the right to self-determination and should freely determine their political status. We now have come to a point in our history where our political journey, again, appears dormant. However, our people must continue working with the regional and international community, as well as the U.S. Congress and United Nations, to rectify the political injustices suffered by our people and commit to pursuing the political fulfillment promised to the people of Guåhan over a century ago.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided yet another example of how reliant our island is on imported goods, when there are realistic and reasonable sustainability measures to be considered and which would make Guåhan better prepared for disasters and emergencies in the future. In addition to supporting the efforts of the Guam Green Growth Working Group, Climate Change Resiliency Commission, Guam Aquacultural Task Force and related organizations, I am committed to the principles set forth by the Local2030 Island Hub Network. This encompasses advocating for the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, developing an open-data platform to measure progress, integrating cross-sector policy and planning priorities, promoting a project pipeline that builds island resiliency and building capacity for community action. There are various avenues to accomplishing this mission and working productively towards our 10-year action plan, but the bulk of work is networking, collecting and sharing data, forming relative policies and plans, and engaging stakeholders and our island community throughout our course. We have already set our sights on this path and have joined an international community of island leaders to collectively advance our Sustainable Development Goals. There are already discussions on revitalizing our agricultural and aquacultural industries, and I look forward to supporting or sponsoring policies that lead our island towards becoming more sustainable. We don’t have to look too far back to see the effectiveness and efficiency of sustainability on island, either; we only have to remember the harvests our farming relatives would come home with from the ranch, or the fish our fishermen and women caught for dinner the other night. Our greatest examples of sustainability are right at home and, as more of us practice these principles in our lives, the closer we are to realizing self-sufficiency and long-term sustainable growth in the near future.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and significant and sacred environments on Guåhan should be protected and preserved in place. These cultural sites and ancestral lands are not simply plots of land for the military or government to develop at a price, but are the sacred grounds of our ancestors and the ancient CHamoru people. They are sites that were once the ancient settlements and homes of the CHamoru and, while the landscapes may have changed over the centuries, they still serve as spiritual resting places and living museums of CHamoru heritage, culture and history. Construction activity and other developments in the area have uncovered human remains, ceramic scatters, an earth oven, lusong and various stone and shell tools, in addition to the area being identified as the ancient CHamoru village of Magua.’ This tells us that current construction activity continues to disturb the hollowed grounds of what we can imagine was once a community of indigenous people. As a daughter of Guåhan, these intrusions inspired me to introduce resolutions in the 34th and 35th Guam Legislatures calling for a pause to clearing, data recovery and construction activity at the Live Fire Training Range Complex. Presenting this formal request on behalf of our people was not in opposition of the military buildup, but instead was an effort to preserve our culture, history and environment. We will continue advocating for the protection and preservation of these sites and to ensure that the legacy of our ancestors and the CHamoru people is not destroyed or erased.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

The Chamorro Land Trust Commission was formed 45 years ago to ensure that CHamoru homelands are awarded to native CHamorus and, after recent legal action, will be awarding leases to those who lost land or use of their land during World War II and in its aftermath. These lands, which account for 33 percent of government of Guam property, by law, are to be protected for beneficiaries and their families. Along with many in our community, especially the many beneficiaries on the waiting list for CLTC leases, the Barrigada Heights lease controversy that was uncovered came as a shocking discovery and disappointment. These lands, which many of our people have been hoping to use for residential or agricultural purposes, were not being awarded with fairness and equality under the law. I want to commend and offer my sincere gratitude to former CLTC chairperson Pika Fejeran for her leadership at the commission, which, under her direction, truly served the best interests of its beneficiaries and the people of Guåhan. Through her insight and initiative, the commission’s shortcomings and mismanagement were exposed. She defended the commission’s mission and goals, adhering to a strict sense of integrity that identified loopholes in the administering of leases, saving more than 2,800 voidable leases and preventing further skipping of beneficiaries on the waiting list – in addition to defending the CLTC from a federal lawsuit that would have disrupted or prevented the issuance of future leases. I look forward to honoring Mrs. Fejeran’s service by prioritizing and protecting her initiatives, which dually serve the commission’s mission and beneficiaries. For the benefit of past and future trustees, residential leases should take priority, so that more of our families seeking homeownership are able to realize their dreams. Agricultural leases should only be leased to credible farmers for properties that are feasible for farming. Commercial leases and licenses should be granted on a basis that takes into account the greatest benefit for the beneficiary and the people of Guåhan. In improving the current systems in place, I would also advocate that all commercial leases currently approved be reviewed for compliance with the recently updated CLTC rules and regulations, and that other lands in the CLTC inventory be studied to determine and support the most practical and beneficial utilization of the land. These measures will help to restore public trust and the integrity of the commission for the benefit of current and future trustees.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer is our island’s main source of freshwater and supplies 80 percent of our population with that water. In simple terms, the aquifer is limestone bedrock that lies beneath the surface of northern Guåhan and, within the bedrock, contains a large body of fresh groundwater. This body of fresh groundwater floats above saltwater and is pumped through various wells in northern Guåhan, which is how the majority of island residents receive their potable water. There have been several concerns raised about the harmful effects of the Live Fire Training Range construction and military buildup. One concern is that too much groundwater would be pumped to serve the growing population as a result of the buildup. The more freshwater that is pumped, the more saltwater moves into the aquifer and contaminates the freshwater, leaving it no longer potable. Like the possibility of saltwater contamination due to strained groundwater pumping and relative to the military buildup, surface contamination is also a concern. As millions of bullets are projected to land over our aquifer during training, there runs the risk of potential lead contamination. These risks are far too great for our only aquifer and main source of freshwater, and protecting this vital resource is important for public health and sustainable development on Guåhan. In line with protecting the environment surrounding the Live Fire Training Range, we will continue advocating for our aquifer to be protected and preserved as well.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

For every impact the military buildup has on our island, there should be great effort and strict guidelines to mitigate negative impacts. The buildup, which is impacting virtually every aspect of life on Guam, has been lauded as the birth of a new industry and a big benefit to our government in terms of revenues. Many in the business community and fiscal sectors of our government support this from an economical perspective, but there have been negative impacts identified that weigh down any potential financial gain. The military buildup represents one of the largest shifts in military service members since World War II, and to an island with limited resources and strained infrastructure. The dramatic increase of service members on island will come not only at a physical cost, but also a social one. Our population will drastically increase in a short time span and contribute to the minoritization of CHamorus and the non-CHamoru voting population. This could also trickle-down to affecting future debate and discussion on Guam’s political status and decolonization efforts. So, while the economic drivers associated with the military buildup will benefit our local economy and infrastructure, the impacts at-large are wide-ranging and far-reaching, and will influence our community and social structures from business activity and highway traffic, to healthcare services and public safety. Each of these aspects should be constantly weighed and considered as the military buildup continues in order to mitigate negative impacts and put the people of Guåhan, who are indigenous to the island, in the front seat of any economic driver.

Q1

Name:

Therese M. Terlaje

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator, Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

To enhance our food security, I have fought to resolve past contamination to protect our ecosystem from further destruction and to control what goes into and out of our water lens. Similarly, my efforts have focused on managing the land resources of the CLTC and the government of Guam for sustainable use.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

Guam must continue to pursue a multi-pronged strategy in its decades-long quest for justice and self-determination. This was my passion, even before I became a senator, and I remain committed to the pursuit of justice.

To be effective, we must continue to build relationships, to keep an open mind, and to allow full discussion and full creativity as we go forward. Together, we must continue to strenuously prepare ourselves individually and collectively, that we may strategically avail of any door, window, or sliver of opportunity for the collective advancement of the people of Guam, and where opportunity does not exist, to create it.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Guam must be more self-sustaining. Our plans must be ongoing and adaptable and will require the ingenuity of the many agencies and organizations involved as they will bring the entire community along with them.

As a senator, I will continue to dedicate time and resources to protect our natural resources from contamination and exploitation and to seek just healthcare for past exposure to Agent Orange, radiation and other contaminants.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I support preservation in place for all Chamorro cultural heritage sites and burial grounds. We owe this to future generations.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

With the recent legal settlement, as Chair of the Committee on Land, I am seeking the public’s input on the changes to the enabling statute which will ultimately allow leases to move forward. After that is in place, I will work to get a consensus on the long-standing need for infrastructure for CLTC properties to expand housing and quality of life.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I do not support the destruction of the ecosystem and acres of limestone forest. “Mitigation efforts” to reproduce a unique, thriving and diverse limestone forest will not make up for the loss of protection to our aquifer and lost habitat.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The Department of Defense findings show positive economic impacts which differ from other economists’ analyses that highlight long term nominal benefits especially if weighed against adverse effects and increased costs to government agencies and the community at large.

Q1

Name:

Don Antonio Ada Edquilane

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator in the 36th Guam Legislature.

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Promote "Greenspace Islandwide In All Villages" Legislation; Grow Coconut Trees on All of Guam's Beaches … then monitor and protect them from the Rhino Beetles. Continue growing fruit trees traditionally found on Guam. Incentivize farming of varieties of food crops on Guam; including grains, roots, and fruit from plants, bushes, vines, and trees. Create multiple Guam Consumable Trade Products to Trade with nearby Asian nation Allies!

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

Most of my comprehension of Guahan(Guam) political status History is from Mid 1900's High School History Text Books Used in Mid 1980's Guam History Class, the History Channel, Newspapers, Local Guam T.V. News Channels, Elders Stories, and from peers. Self determination for me is a daily state of mind; what I or anyone believes + what others want to convince me is a more accurate, up to date version … (As we all experience "upgrades to our computer software programs!?) … Thesis + Antithesis = (creates) synthesis … or the New Thesis? … then Repeat?

So many "What ifs!?"; why dwell when reality is better than some of the "What ifs!? … Just implement improvements; what makes anyone think that not having the World's Largest democracy … or Constitutional Republic as Guam's Ally would make Guam better off when dealing with other World Powers like China?; What would stop Beijing from imposing itself on Guam just like has happened to Tibet, Hong Kong, and other places where an interest is taken?!

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

1st … Any "Budget Surplus" should pay down Our Territorial $2B Debt; We should ALL be Ashamed of 0urselves for leaving such a huge debt for our children's generation to struggle to pay off! If new need is identified in the near future; no doubt the leaders at that time will figure out how to make a loan that they may or may not decide to pay off!

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

Sure why not!?; but we must defer to our national federal government … That's how democracy with a constitutional republic works!; I think(believe)?!

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

If we ever find a way to determine who is the true owner of any property; the owner should be returned their (now) inheritance! Otherwise, there is either a Chamorro Ethnic Nation or there isn't!; my elders believed there was! … It seems that eventually Our U.S.A. Congress will have to acknowledge this issue to be true and factual; thereby requiring a Congressional Remedy … sooner rather than later! … or We are going to experience some REAL HURTING here on this tiny homeland island of GUAHAN!

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

My understanding is that it sucks; when it feels like someone is "DISing" you! … possibly poisoning your food and water source! … And you feel patriotic toward your Country because your elders did! … But then, our system of government allows for us to have a voice; And to contest how we are treated by our own government!

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

Don't count your poyitus manok before it's hatched; and then don't expect all of them to survive to be your gayu! … I'm a Republican; Donald Trump, also a Republican, didn't allow for Guam to hire visa construction workers from countries like the Phillipines even after it became clear that Guam's Construction jobs would not be filled exclusively from Guam Residents or while including Stateside hired Construction workers! The result was a negated Guam Economic Stimulus and a Government of Guam Budget Cash Shortfall!?

Q1

Name:

Joanne Brown

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senatorial Office

Republican

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

The island needs to expand it’s development of local agriculture to promote greater sustainability. I am an advocate of conservation farming to enrich our soils and reduce erosion.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

The CHamoru people through their colonial history have not been given the opportunity to address their desired political status. I support the CHamoru people’s right to self-determination.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

There are often many plans that are developed but not successfully implemented especially when such plans cover a long period of time. Leaders change, policies change, priorities change. I would want to focus on incremental plans with shorter timeframes that have tangible outcomes. I also would like to see younger people being exposed to agricultural and aquacultural farming to pursue not just academically but as a career. During my time working at UOG with Soil and Water Conservation, I worked with a number of farmers and noted that there were few people from our younger generation actively engaged in farming and related sustainable production. I have seen some changes in recent years and would like to see more.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I believe it s important to protect historical sites and also manage the protection of these resources as our island continues to grow and develop. There is no easy answer to address every situation. A lot of focus is placed on the military construction projects and certainly more can be done to insure compliance on military construction projects. However, impacts to cultural remains and resources outside the fence doesn’t get as much protection or attention. The Government of Guam is not as aggressive in protecting similar cultural sites and ensuring compliance on development projects that it has already approved. Such is the case with the Pago Bay development project in my neighborhood where Land Management has not insured that compliance standards related to the reinternment of ancient remains that were exhumed by the project over 12 years ago have been met. Why is this the case? I and a number of concerned citizens formed Save Southern Guam to raise these very concerns as a result of the governments failure to address compliance standards and its susceptibility to be influenced by developers and ignore the concerns and voices of village residents with regards to the quality of life desired for their communities. More needs to be done to address these issues.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I support the Chamorro Land Trust Commission but I also want to see compliance and enforcement of land trust regulations. When I worked at UOG, I was part of the team contracted by the CLTC to review the status and compliance of agricultural land leases. This was the first time that there was an organized review and site inspection of CLTC agricultural leases since the Land Trust properties were issued. There was a high level of noncompliance with agricultural farming requirements to include the misuse of the land for purposes never intended in the lease agreements. The distribution of CLTC properties have also been in some cases politicial over the years as evident by who got what properties where and corruption within the CLTC administration where staffers were issuing themselves and family members leases for CLTC properties. These issues need to be addressed as there are many Chamorros who have yet to receive CLTC land and witness others who have received such leases not use the land for its intended purposes.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

The protection of our Northern aquifer is not limited to possible contamination by the Live Fire Training Range. The overdevelopment of Northern Guam, unregulated spectic tanks and waste pollution to include illegal disposal of chemicals all contribute to the degradation of our water resources now and in the future. Many years ago, I sponsored legislation that became law to implement and fund the Hydrogeological Survey under WERI at UOG. Many students have undertaken their studies through this program and have since received their degrees and have become water experts in Guam and the region. Much more is now known about the profile, recharge and resources within the Northern aquifer and what is needed to further manage and protect this very precious resource. There is a much bigger picture that needs to addressed to protect our water resources and I have been a long term advocate for this. In addition, I served as the first Co-Chairperson and community member for 14 years for the Anderson Air Force Base Restoration Advisory Board to address the prioritization and cleanup of formally contaminated sites inside and outside of the base. This required long term interest and personal dedication to attend meetings and site visits over the years to not only to meet and discuss but also verify environmental cleanup and mitigation has occurred. The objective now is to minimize and avoid contamination of our land and water resources. This is a process we need to be engaged with for the Live Firing Range or any other development project on island.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The military and federal government makes significant contribution to our islands economy. In the mist of this current pandemic, federal funds are supporting many families that became unemployed to get through these very challenging times. Yes, the buildup is bringing increased revenue to the island and there will be an eventual decline. Guam has dealt with these issues before during the building boom in the private sector and tourism industry in the 1980s and 1990s. It is important for those in leadership to be Guam centered and work towards minimizing adverse impacts and expanding revenue benefits to improve the quality of life of our people. I am not anti-military. I come from a military family but I am for responsible development inside or outside of the fence.

Q1

Name:

Frank Leon Guerrero (Familian Nacha (Father’s side)/Familian Liberato (Mother’s side)

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

I am asking the people of Guåhan to support my candidacy and to allow me to serve them as a Senator in the 36th Guam Legislature. I am a proud Democrat. I have been inspired by the grassroots movement of Governors’ like Ricky Bordallo and Carl Gutierrez. I spent many years serving as Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo’s Director of Constituent Services. My father was 11 years old when Guam was invaded by Japanese imperial forces. His experience led him to serve proudly in the Korean War. It was an honor for me while working in Congress to advocate for our brave veterans on behalf of the people of Guåhan. I also served as a budget analyst for Senator Frank Aguon Jr., and supported responsible budget management. My career is in law enforcement; I retired as a major in the Guam Police Department. Thereafter, I was called to service and became chief marshal in the Judiciary of Guam. And finally, I was sworn in under President Barack Obama’s administration as U.S. Marshal, District Courts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). My island has given me deep and abiding friendships. The benefit of those amazing years is that those who know me, know my work ethic and the credibility, honor, integrity, empathy, and faith that I will bring to the Legislature. I will give this work my all as I have with all my other professions.

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Through legislation and oversight. Sometimes vision starts with where we are now. I support the work that Chelsa Muna Brect is doing in rebuilding the Department of Agriculture. I am in continued support of the Guåhan Farmer’s Co-op and the work that Mike Aguon is doing there as president. In my view, Senator Clynt Ridgel has done an outstanding job providing support and leadership as the oversight chair.

Most importantly I support our local farmers. My wife and I are CHamoru cooks and one of the things that we are most proud of is when we host a gathering in our home with produce that has been grown on Guåhan. The name Guåhan means “Bountiful Land”. The indigenous people of our island once produced enough food to nourish an ancient civilization. In the ’80s, Governor Bordallo renewed this idea and developed the concept of the “ Green Revolution”. Food Security is a crucial part of self-governance. Individual home and community gardens can be a deeply meaningful vehicle for self-empowerment.

I support policies that would establish incentives for our people to keep a small garden in their backyard, and community gardens where soil is sparse. I support the establishment and development of a master agricultural plan. I support the development of a master composting plan for food waste and green waste. A master composting plan would work to renew our soil, island wide. As a result, we would see increased agricultural productivity. I am supportive of Senator Sabina Perez’s work to establish a zero-waste strategic framework for Guåhan.

Land and water resources are essential for food production and food supply. Long term food security and sustainability correlate to the utilization of agricultural technologies, freshwater supply, and livestock farming. I support local farmers and husbandry groups by providing local subsidies to grow and market their products. I will also work to help to team up with the Department of Agriculture and the University of Guam to find solutions to long term food security by way of, for example, improving crop efficiency.

I intend to work with the Leon Guerrero - Tenorio administration to move these ideas forward on behalf of our people.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

First, let me say that I am a proud CHamoru man and that the CHamoru language is my first language. Political self-determination affects all aspects of Guåhan’s current and future dealings with the United States and other nation-states. It is the difference between having equal say in the future of our island and sitting at the table, or being told by the powers that be, that decisions were made without having a say. It affects every decision we make as a people and as an island nation. It affects our economy, our jobs, and our education--all aspects of our daily lives. Guåhan’s quest for self-determination and decolonization is especially important because it sets the rules of engagement in our relationship with the United States, on an equal footing and the right to decide if we are going to adopt federal mandates or not. I support the United Nations Charter for the self-determination of all peoples. I support all adopted U.N. resolutions pertaining to Guåhan that would compel the United States to cooperate with Guåhan’s path to self-determination. Within the United Nations Charter is a set of principles that include respect for self-determination of all peoples. There are 17 non-self-governing territories in the world today. Guåhan is one of them. The U.N. monitors progress toward self-determination of these remaining territories. In 1960, the U.N. General Assembly adopted a Declaration on Decolonization, stating that all people have a right to self-determination. It proclaimed that colonialism should be brought to a speedy and unconditional end. In early October 2017, Governor Eddie Calvo and 16 petitioners, including Senator Therese Terlaje and Vice Speaker Telena Nelson, appeared before the U.N.’s Fourth Committee to urge the adoption of a resolution which would force the U.S. to cooperate with Guåhan's path to self-determination. In. In November 2017, the resolution came up for a vote. A United States representative voted against the United Nations resolution which recognized and supported Guåhan's right to self-determination, stating the resolution contains language that appears to attack the United States. The resolution resulted with 80 votes in favor, nine against and 62 abstentions. The U.S., Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Iraq, Israel, Morocco, Malawi, and Ukraine voted against the resolution. The resolution, which has changed since it was first approved by a smaller committee in June, includes the call for the U.N. Assembly to conduct the following, among other resolves:

• Encourage Guåhan and the U.S. to negotiate on self-determination efforts;

• Call on the U.S. to cooperate fully with the committee to help promote Guåhan decolonization;

• Request that the U.S. transfer lands back to original landowners on Guåhan;

• Request that the U.S. acknowledge and respect the cultural and ethnic identity of the indigenous Chamorro people;

• Plan a visiting mission to Guåhan; and

• Urge the U.S. and Guåhan to come to a mutual understanding to protect the environment against the harmful impacts of militarization while providing regional security for the United States. Today, Guåhan continues to fight for decolonization and self-determination. Everyone who calls Guåhan their home should take an active interest in Guåhan’s quest for political self-determination.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Through Legislation and Oversight. I am supportive of Senator Kelley Marsh Taitano’s and Senator Sabina Perez’s bill to create a Guåhan 2050 Master Plan based on Sustainability. This effort will involve capturing the aspirations of the entire community through strategic planning and community engagement. I intend to work closely with senators to ensure that this effort is given the support and resources it needs.

I also support the Leon Guerreo -Tenorio administration’s Greening Growth Initiative (G3) that is working to assemble a strategic matrix of initiatives that will be a tool to outline a path towards Guåhan becoming more sustainable. If recommendations from the group require legislation, I will work with the experts to craft a bill that will meet the criteria for sustainable activities on Guåhan and will continue to work with the G3 teams to provide assistance that would achieve each objective.

The COVID Pandemic is a wake-up call. We are being called to live in harmony with nature and the earth as our ancestors did. We are being called to realize that humanity does not sit outside of nature but rather is an integral part of nature. We are being called to heal the land and in so doing, heal ourselves.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

The complexities involved in this ongoing debate are many. On the one hand, we want to preserve our lands and heritage, and on the other, military readiness in this region is necessary and the economic advantages are enormous. If there is a willingness to compromise on both sides, then the best decisions for our land and her people is made with a clear understanding of what is being offered and what is being taken away.

With Guahan having to deal with a pandemic, businesses eagerly await the startup of construction activities and while the buildup is not perfect, in the past, the Department of Defense has demonstrated its willingness to listen to local concerns and adjust the buildup plan. Island leaders and local advocates should always engage in dialogue with DoD; also, transparency from both sides is vitally important. Even during the pandemic, buildup activities continue: the urban combat training facility at Andersen South, a portion of Camp Blaz, and segments of the live-fire training range complex are complete.

As I learned, the opportunity for another sit down could be on the horizon. Just recently, Blue Ocean Law and the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization filed a joint submission on the buildup and other issues to Francisco Calí Tzay, Special Rapporteur to the United Nations on the rights of indigenous peoples.

The submission asks for an investigation to determine the allegations made which include the disturbance of ancestral remains and Chamorro artifacts. The live firing range will also be investigated where local advocates state that the surface danger zone for the firing range will restrict access to the Ritidian wildlife refuge and destroy culturally relevant artifacts. If Mr. Tzay takes action, an investigation is likely. It is my hope that if this occurs and the findings are favorable to Guahan, the DoD will take a step back and open up new dialogue with leaders and local advocate groups and take their recommendations seriously and with an open mind.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

The CLTC was created by public law to administer properties for the benefit of Guahan’s native Chamorros as defined by the Organic Act. However, because of a 2017 lawsuit that accused the CLTC of racial discrimination and violation of federal fair housing laws, the Commission signed a settlement agreement that requires the Legislature to make changes to the CHamoru Land Trust Act by June 2021.

Among one of the changes to the settlement agreement is the definition of eligibility. The term “native Chamorro” will be replaced with an “eligible beneficiary.” The CLTC would be required to issue leases based on whether people lost land or the use of their land instead of whether they are a native CHamoru. This means that any person, regardless of race color or natural origin, whose land was acquired by the federal government between 1898 and 1968 or who occupied, used, or farmland that was acquired by the federal government between 1898 and 1968, is eligible.

I support the work of the CLTC in providing land to those who qualify. There is a shortage of affordable housing on Guåhan. Many families dream of building or buying their own home, but it is too expensive. I will work closely with the CLTC to continue their good work and to find a mechanism for qualified families to build a home on land trust property to include the necessary infrastructure.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I am hopeful that in a Biden Administration that we are able to work with the White House and the Department of Defense to establish a high-level working group that will ensure that support of our Nation’s defense doesn’t compromise the natural systems that sustain life in our oceans and upon our lands. I believe that the people of Guåhan are proud and fierce American patriots; some of whom have served and are serving our nation’s armed forces, courageously, all over the world, and sadly those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. However, the protection and safekeeping of our aquifers are non-negotiable.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

We must move beyond the cyclical nature of the “boomtown effect” and then “steep decline” modality. Therefore, I feel that shifting to a sustainable economy is critical. Guåhan and the world are dealing with a global pandemic that has changed the landscape of the military buildup. Guahan is expected to face a recession because of the pandemic which will have nothing to do with the buildup. The pandemic has brought economic activity to a near-standstill. We are faced with a very vulnerable health care system, loss of tourism, huge job losses, the closing of businesses, dwindling revenues, tight financial conditions, and mounting debt. Leaders must find solutions to cushion the pandemic’s economic consequences.

The military buildup is expected to bring in big federal government projects that will provide local jobs. During this time, the economy grows, and jobs are plentiful. When the buildup slows, there are those who believe that the economy will shrink, and people will lose their jobs. Policymakers must anticipate this and find innovative measures to deliver income support to workers and credit support to businesses. It will be a challenge since the trend of slowing growth is exacerbated by COVID-19 and the pandemic will make the challenges our economy faces even harder.

Having stated this, I will work to put in place targeted stimulus measures to support the private sector and get money directly to people. I will focus on sustaining economic activity with support for households, local businesses, and essential government services.

Q1

Name:

Telo T. Taitague

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

- Senator, 36th Guam Legislature

- Republican

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I will draft and support policies as I have this term that open up opportunities for industries in agriculture and aquaculture to develop and grow – through responsible use of public lands. I’m also open to supporting incentive programs to attract and sustain new farming activities that help to reduce Guam’s dependence on imported food.

Reducing our dependence on imported food is more than an economic issue, doing so gives our people an opportunity to consider the adverse impacts imported, highly processed food has on our health – and the steps we need to take to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I believe it is our fundamental right as a community that has been occupied for many years without our consent, to determine Guam’s political status going forward. As we contemplate our options and whether we have the energy and resources to move ahead in this difficult but necessary journey, I’m seriously considering independence as we can look to other Micronesian islands such as Palau and the FSM which although are independent, they each share a strong political relationship with the United States. Guam can study further and agree on which federal policies, such as our tax code, we should consider continuing if independence is pursued.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Sustaining our island community requires a bold vision for the future which starts with us doing what we can now to learn more about the sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations – and determine whether we are prepared to do everything we can to support these values. From reimagining the critical role schools play in the development of individual habits and collective attitudes – to accepting our responsibilities as tenants of Planet Earth, I will continue working with other decision makers on policies that help change the way we do certain things. This includes strengthening sustainable farming and fishing industries, fighting against military and commercial development that harms our natural resources and promoting actions and programs that reduce waste production.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

The construction and operation of military facilities related to the Guam Buildup must respect our culture and environment. Addressing the preservation of latte and rare historical artifacts including ancestral remains must be done in cooperation with local regulatory agencies including the State Historic Preservation Office and the Guam Environmental Protection Agency.

As I’ve publicly stated in my support last year of Resolution 164 calling for a pause in military construction activity, the Guam Buildup must be good for those inside and outside the fence. In my comments on the MITT Supplemental EIS/OEIS, I urged military and federal authorities to consider the lens through which many on Guam are seeing this huge development take place. Ignoring the concerns related to the destruction of cultural sites and human remains doesn’t help promote goodwill on the part of the military – and makes it even more difficult to convince more of our local community to support the Guam Buildup going forward.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I support equity and more transparency and accountability with respect to the application review and approval process. Moreover, I will support efforts by the CLTC Commission that are aimed at developing critical infrastructure in order for properties to be habitable – and for lessees to maximize use of their lands for the benefit of their families and agricultural industries.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I totally disagree with the location selected for these activities as perhaps other areas within existing military bases which are already developed, should’ve been favored over what are basically undisturbed lands. As we are familiar with exposure on Guam relative to Agent Orange and PFAS contamination, I strongly urge GEPA, the Guam Waterworks Authority, and other federal and local regulatory agencies to consistently monitor potential impacts that may arise during construction and post-construction activities.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

Policymakers shouldn’t rely too much on military related construction activity as a long-term solution to Guam’s fiscal challenges. We must continue to strengthen our tourism industry while developing new areas in agriculture, aquaculture, and technology.

I will continue working with GEDA and relevant agencies and the private sector to explore the submarine cables industry, which connects Guam and communities abroad via the internet and telephones through landing stations and other telecommunications infrastructure. The submarine cables industry is an area that should be further looked into so that our island can expand existing capabilities that will create new jobs through data centers and associated industries.

I will also support serious efforts that are carried out to develop new or expand existing aquaculture and agricultural businesses. The Government of Guam could help these industries through the development of sustainable public-private partnerships using unused public facilities and/or lands.

Q1

Name:

Sabina Flores Perez

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator (Democrat)

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Food sovereignty, which is defined as the right of people to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through sustainable methods and the right to define their own food and agricultural systems, is an important part of sustainability of our society and environment. As a leader, I will continue to promote curriculum and apprenticeships toward sustainable agriculture in the public schools; increase multisectoral partnerships such as farm-to-school and farm-to-table programs, and connecting local farmers to emergency food programs; facilitate greater access to local produce for SNAP recipients and senior citizens; develop CSAs with greater community engagement; and work with DPHSS Non Communicable Disease Consortium and other government and community partners to foster comprehensive examination of agriculture, food, nutrition, and health policies.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I believe in every people’s right to self-determine their political will. The CHamoru people have been denied this right by Spanish colonizers and, since 1898, the United States. While the Organic Act of Guam offers us certain abilities, any powers that we do have are ultimately granted (and can be overruled) by Congress. Because we are an unincorporated territory, only certain rights under the Constitution are extended to us. Therefore, what other Americans experience as ‘rights’ are, to us, privileges--which can be taken away by acts of Congress.

With that being said, we do not have what the United Nations refers to as “sovereign equality,” with other countries. The UN General Assembly Resolution 1514 states, “All peoples have the right to self-determination; by virtue of that right they may freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.” It is a matter of fact, not opinion, that the people of Guåhan do not currently have the ability to freely determine their political, economic, social, or cultural development. This affects us in many ways, with one example being the inability of our highest elected official, the governor, to close our borders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, the CHamoru people are an Indigenous Peoples who have been, and are still, colonized. In order to right the wrongs of history, it is incumbent on all CHamoru living today to work together towards sovereignty; and it is incumbent on all non-CHamoru who call our island home today to support CHamoru self-determination to ensure a brighter future for all.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

I have introduced, passed and supported legislation to protect our natural resources, to ensure our water is safe to drink, and to reduce our carbon footprint to help mitigate climate change. I have also consistently advocated for the protection of our natural and cultural resources at Tai’lalo’ locally, nationally, and internationally at the United Nations. I will continue to advocate and develop policies to protect our irreplaceable, valuable resources.

During this pandemic, it is my objective to rebuild our economy that is ecologically and socially centered. I will work hard to develop policies that diversify and localize our economy. This will require further dialogue and commitment with governmental and community stakeholders and commitment of resources and funding.

(Please refer to my website www.senatorperez.org)

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

My position is steadfast prior to becoming a senator. I am staunchly opposed to the construction of Live Fire Training Range Complex (LFTRC) at Tai’lalo. There is too much at stake. We stand to lose our precious limestone forests that host endemic and endangered species, one of which is the last remaining Serianthes nelsonii or hayun lagu, mother tree of Guam that is located 100 feet away from the proposed MPMG range. The LFTRC is sited atop our Northern aquifer and has the potential to contaminate our sole source aquifer and our drinking water from the lead and other toxins released from the 6.7 million bullets. The construction of the LFTRC at Tai’lalo’ has unearthed ancestral remains in addition to the 20 known historic sites that are slated to be destroyed. The operation of the LFTRC will also bar, for approximately 9 months out of the year, our traditional healers and fishermen from continuing the cultural practices that have sustained us for centuries. We cannot afford to lose any more our cultural and natural heritage. We must preserve what we have today and for our future.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I believe in the intent of the Chamorro Land Trust Commission Right to right the wrongs of colonialism by providing land for CHamoru residents to build homes or farm for sustenance. This is no small feat, and it’s a shame that the CLTC has been encumbered by mismanagement in past years. We must understand that colonialism as it unraveled on our island caused the massive displacement of many CHamoru families. This is especially true of World War II, and the United States military’s post-war land seizures. During this critical time in our people’s history, entire villages were moved in order to make room for military installations. For the majority of CHamoru alive today, this means a lost connection to our ancestral lands.

Today, this displacement looks like CHamoru being among the majority of houseless persons, and so many more of our people who are unable to afford housing. Many steps must be taken to address the issues of the CLTC. One of the steps is increasing surveying in order to facilitate leases to CHamorus. I would also promote mixed use developments in urban areas that combine living spaces with economic development and other holistic types of development that provides sustainability economically and environmentally.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Throughout my term as a senator in the 35th Guam Legislature, I’ve consistently opposed the Marine relocation and the Live Fire Training Range Complex, which as you’ve rightly pointed out, will greatly affect the integrity and sustainability of our people’s main source of water. The US produces about 69,000 metric tons of lead, much of which goes into the production of ammunition which ends up in military firing ranges. Not only are lead and other heavy metals aerosolized, but it can also seep into the soil and percolate into our groundwater. Additionally, buildup-related projects also means the deforestation of our limestone forests, which is connected to the health of our coral reefs. Together, these are not only devastating to our environment, but to all of us who call Guahan home.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

Reliance on tourism and military leisure spending as local economic drivers has been the status quo for our economy for decades. It is a flawed model, as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown. I believe, as a people, we should work to build an economy that is ecologically and socially centered. I will work hard, together with governmental and community stakeholders, to develop policies that diversify and localize our economy by working toward green, sustainable jobs which improve the quality of life for island residents and the integrity of our natural resources.

Q1

Name:

Mary Camacho Torres

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator.

Republican

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Agricultural autonomy and self-sufficiency is a proud tradition by which our People have thrived for centuries. I would support and revive previous efforts to develop small-scale food production on Guam. Whether it’s reducing the regulatory burden and barriers faced by community and family-based producers, providing exemptions for cottage industries and farmer-led cooperatives, or supporting food preparation in the home—empowering our local entities can reduce our dependence on imports and bring us one step closer to a sustainable food supply.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I support the CHamoru right to self-determination. As Guam’s first elected Governor, my father spent his administration fighting for greater self-governance for our people. While his election represented a milestone in Guam’s history, he recognized that we are morally and politically obligated to carve our own path—to not only fight for political freedom, but strive for economic and social self-sufficiency. I believe it is our duty to remember and continue the work of those who fought before us—in the hopes that, one day, our political destiny becomes more than a “mere dream but a distinct possibility.”

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

This pandemic has taught us that we are in dire need of diversifying our economy. I believe that investing in cottage industry activities—such as light agriculture, food preparation, respite care, environment friendly arts and crafts, cultural practitioning, dress making, etc.—will not only get our people the independent income they need, but help invigorate our economy toward a more sustainable model.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

CHamorus and the people of Guam have the right to preserve cultural and historic properties, as well as the life within these properties. That is why I joined my colleagues in the Legislature in both 2017 and earlier this term calling for a pause on construction and pre-construction activities (which included any clearing, grading, data-recovery, and removing activities) related to the U.S. Department of the Navy’s proposed Live-Fire Training Range Complex.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

While I support the mission of the CLTC to advance our people’s wellbeing through equitable land distribution, the historical mishandling of the trust has only deepened public distrust. If re-elected, I would advocate for policies that oversight committees have been pushing for years: tighter processing methods, stricter funding and administrative controls, and clearer communication with applicants.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Local leaders must ensure the conservation of environmental resources of the northern coastline of Guam. This includes the protection of our island’s main source of freshwater. That is why I supported a pause on construction and pre-construction activities (which included any clearing, grading, and removing activities) related to the U.S. Department of the Navy’s proposed Live-Fire Training Range Complex at Northwest Field.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

As I’ve stated in the past, I believe that Guam must reimagine a more self-sustaining economy for our island, regardless of U.S. military presence. That said, I support any buildup plan that addresses the concerns of our people and leaves our island safer and more secure than we were before.

Q1

Name:

Christopher L. Carillo

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator, Guam Legislature (D)

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Depending on others less for the food we eat demands that we make depending on ourselves easier. That means local farmers must be able to grow their crops with the knowledge that one bad typhoon won’t mean absolute poverty for them and their families. If elected Senator, I will invest in our local department of Agriculture. It’s new task will be to fill-out the paperwork local farmers need to access free or affordable crop insurance from USDA. As a result farmers can work the land and bring their crops to market knowing that 1 bad season won’t mean bankruptcy.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I fully support the CHamoru people’s right to self-deteemination. It is meant to write a long term historical injustice and I will work with others to protect and advance that cause.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Our focus must be on food security, renewable energy at affordable rates, and green jobs. We support food security by making farming easier as a business. That means low water rates for farming, crop insurance, and a way to bring crops to market. The same is true with renewable energy. I support net metering, and other public private partnerships in renewable energy.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I believe the Programmatic Agreement should be enforced. If ancestral remains are found they should be respected and preserved in place wherever possible.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

First, the CLTC enabling statute must be amended to comply with its settlement agreement with the Department of Justice. Second, CLTC resources must stay with the trust, not be raided for the benefit of GovGuam.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I support the Guam Buildup but would oppose any action that clearly contaminated our northern fresh water supply. Protecting the aquifer is in everyone’s interest.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

While Guam can’t see the Buildup as an economic panacea, we do need to acknowledge the immense role defense spending plays in our now limited economy. I support a responsible Buildup for Guam—one that respects our residents invests in tomorrow, and honors Guam’s unique culture.

Q1

Name:

Vincent Borja

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator, Republican

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Look at ways to encourage and incentivize agriculture. Look at what ways we can support the infrastructure to grow high margin products.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

Make right of the historical injustice to the Chamoru people.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

I don't know enough to comment on this. I'd have to do more research to understand it better.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

We need to do our best and work with the military to preserve what's left of our culture.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

Remove political influence.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

I don't know enough to comment on this. I'd have to do more research to understand it better.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

I don't know enough to comment on this. I'd have to do more research to understand it better. I do support a growing economy, but not at the cost of cultural desecration.

Q1

Name:

Franklin J Meno aka Bunker

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

I am running for the office of Senator in 36 th Guam legislature #7 democeat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I will support any agricultura efforts for Guam to raise our own food source ,We already have an ocean and we should put more efforts to protect it with new regulations long forgotten ancestral natural les to keep our fish stock bountyful and viable for the future children to enjoy and leave it better than we have it now . .Give department of agriculture more funding to support grass roots farming inititives so many can become will more self sufficient and provide for those who cannot farm .Ifwe had this established now one on Guam will go hungry. showering dependancy on imported foods .Fresh is best

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

Our indiginous people should have a voice ,but we dont have one.Take our resources anyone living here can commercial fish or hunt this should be regulated only locals can namely chamorros you can be from FSM or other Pacific island and you should pay for a permit to fish or hunt or gather and they come here break the law and go to jail if they not born here no matter what the crime is ,we should deport bad apples but Our Governor cannot ,and theses are issues . I say pay for permits and taxes which can used to pay officers to enforce local ordinace .If we become self determined we cannot run our soverignty Like it is now We vote for wealthy people who afford fancy signs and now we have covid true colors showed. The power belong to the people not elected leaders who self serving. Guam can be better.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Agriculture inititives Slauther houses warming and raise our own food become self reliant .chicken ,pork ,and Beef, eggs .We are in the tropics we can grow many things year round .

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

The federal goverment should tone down everything they do here ,Guam as a tactical.position is vital to the military they dont care about our people our heritage or culture and our future .We dont not matter to them they will continue to desecrate our ancestral burial ground and land Marks and the pollutants will destroy our resources. Stop the build up !!!

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

Place Pika Fejeran back in charge remove the Governors Power to appoint anyone for this position .No more stealing to sell to highest bidder.Stay vigilant in its process to assure land is given to more deseving people ,and not our political connected which has been how business conducted in the past. Make oye Agriculture and Live shock a priority .No more hotel construcción.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Our aquifir water is vital ,for our people and the lime stone is the natural filter bullets drugs are is poison on the ground it will end up in our water source We must stop the build up !!reduce military presence Population is too much as it is

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The economic benefit Will be for only a small percentage four population ,The infrustucture is bursting ar the seams ,sewer over flowing when it rains ,water woes ,traffic congestión we already have all of these issues with our rapidly growing population The build will insert 10000, or more adults and cars ,this will increase the strain .Marines are Also prone to violence ,Okinawa wanted them out and are paying for it makes you wonder huh? Not good in the long run on so many levels Guam is small

Q1

Name:

Clynton Ridgell

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator (D)

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

Agriculture is a major plank in my platform to Make Guam Green Again. I have some pieces of legislation I will introduce before I complete my first term as a senator that I hope will help with the development of an Agricultural industry on Guam. The creation of an agricultural industry is one of my major goals. We import about 90 percent our produce. This is money that leaves our economy and goes into the economies and pockets of off-island farmers. We need to keep more of this money on island. An agricultural industry will create new jobs and new revenues while making Guam more self-sustainable. It will also help to ensure food security. Currently if there is a disruption in the supply chain Guam is extremely vulnerable. We need to begin producing our own food so that we are not reliant upon outside food sources.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

I want to see Guahan select a political status. An unincorporated territory of the United States is not a true political status. It was only meant to be a place-holder status until such time that Guahan can self-determine it's status. Guahan is left in a sort of gray area wherein U.S. citizens are not able to vote for the president or have a vote on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives or the U.S. Senate. I believe CHamoru's have an inherent human right to self-determination and I would like to see the CHamoru people exercise this right.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

The planks of my platform to Make Guam Green Again are centered around self-sustainability. I've managed to pass two of the planks in my platform namely the plank to Make Guam Green with Cannabis and the plank to Make Guam Green with Energy. In my first few months as a senator I successfully passed the Cannabis Industry Act which will create new business opportunities, new jobs and new revenues. This will add to Guam's ability to generate revenue with a locally made product. I also co-sponsored and championed a bill that requires Guam to have 100% renewable energy by 2045. This means we will be energy independent by 2045. We will not have to rely on imported oil to power the island. This will lower power rates as the lion's share of our power bill is due to the cost of oil. Renewable energy will keep more money on-island and in our economy rather than sending that money off-island and into the pocket of big oil.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I don't believe that they have been protecting these sites. Instead they have bulldozed them and put the bones of CHamoru ancestors into paper bags. I am happy to hear that the Guam State Historic Preservation Officer has called for a pause on the construction of one of the five ranges. I did not agree with the placement of this life fire training range complex at the Northwest Field in the first place. Now that the construction has already began it is all of our duty to ensure that the federal government follows all of its own rules with respect to impacts on the environment and historical sites.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

We have to protect the CHamoru Land Trust for future generations. We also need to figure out how to begin issuing as much land as possible to those who have been waiting for decades for property. I think we need to figure out how to properly fund the administering of these lands so that they can be doled out to the people that qualify for them.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

My understanding is that there are legitimate concerns about impacts to the Northern Guam Lens Aquifer but the military and others like the USEPA have deemed the marine relocation and construction of the LFTRC as acceptable. It will be up to us to ensure that the impacts to the aquifer are properly addressed and mitigated each step of the way.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The economic benefit of the buildup has been exaggerated. EIS documents reflect that it will raise the cost of living without raising most wages. This is something I have drawn attention to as a Senator. It's something we will have to address.

Q1

Name:

Ken Leon-Guerrero

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Republican Candidate for Senator

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I would eliminate the Office of the Commission on Decolonization, and turn the entire effort over to the people, eliminating government interference. The people want action, politicians want to drag out the process as long as possible so they can get paid. As long as politicians are involved in the process nothing will happen. Proof is the 40 years and an entire generation has come and gone since the effort first began and no progress still.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

All the people of Guam have a right to self-determination.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Government of Guam's plan is unsustainable. The island's business community, as stated in Business forum, has no confidence in Guam moving towards independence.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

The sites are important and need to be better protected and managed.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I would protect it by making sure all appointed commission members are people of high integrity, and not looking to help a politically well connected INsider, plunder the land as is happening now.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

That ship has sailed, I am more concerned about the thousands of pounds of weed killer, pesticides, and fertilizers put on the golf courses on a monthly basis, than I am about bullets sent into an earthen berm or into the ocean.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

The benefits to the local population will be more adverse than beneficial as military housing allowances drive up rents, forcing local people out of the market; drive up the cost of living forcing more people to have multiple jobs to cover the basics of food, shelter, and transportation, and drive more of our young people to leave the island in search of a better quality of life.

Q1

Name:

Tina Rose Muña Barnes

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator in the 36th Guam Legislature - Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I have supported local non-profits that promote sustainable agriculture. I have always been a proponent of buying local – going back to our roots. In the past, the organizations that I have been fortunate to support, have not only created a new industry by just farming – but their farms have also served as a tourist attraction for our visitors. Working closely with the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures, it has always been a dream of mine to establish free trade of produce within our Marianas and Micronesia.

A few years ago, I was one of the proponents of initiative that would allow for the trade of cattle within our Marianas. I have also been a proponent of establishing a direct link between Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands to allow for regularly scheduled, economically viable cargo service between our Islands. The way I see this is that we have the volume to send goods to the CNMI – which would make the cost of living there lower – and at the same time, we will have the luxury of getting fresh produce – at a cheaper price, from right here in the Marianas.

Just recently, I had worked with Senator Wil Castro, and revitalized the Marianas Working Group – and along with our Legislative counterparts from the CNMI, we continue to chip away at the issue of Food Sovereignty. I am grateful to have the support of my colleagues and counterparts because at the end of the day, its more than just food sovereignty, or affordable transportation. Having served for 7 terms – I am glad that we are starting to realize that for Guam and the CNMI – we are stronger TOGETHER. In the past, this has been something I have been trying to push – but had some resistance. Now, there seems to be a greater drive to collaborate on issues of mutual interest, and when the CHamoru People advocate for our interests in Congress – the unanimous voice that echoes through our Marianas Island Chain, it gets heard loud and clear.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

This year, amidst all the criticism, I had advocated for Guam to join the Unrepresented Nations and People’s Organization. The irony of this is that I only learned about this through DC Shadow Senator Paul Strauss. Like Guam, Washington, D.C. has no say in Congress – they also have a non-voting elected shadow representative in the Senate (Sen. Strauss).

As I sought his support to advocate for H.R. 1365 in the Senate, through his help, I was able to get Washington, D.C. to endorse Guam’s application to the UNPO.

Guam is America’s tip-of-the-spear, time and time again, our People have shown that we are the most patriotic in the nation. Washington D.C. is home to the center of the greatest democratic system of Government. That being said, both Guamanians and District of Columbia residents, have no say in the Congress, where decisions are being made that would impact our daily lives, and the lives of our children.

Personally, its not about what I think – its about what we want as a community. Just within my immediate family, there is no consensus on Independence, Status-Quo or Statehood. I think we need to continue to have this dialogue and bring all perspectives to the forefront.

I also want to commend PLSR, as well as Attorney Julian Aguon for working closely with the UNPO to bring the issues that are important to the People of Guam to the UN and the International Courts of Justice.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

I think COVID-19 has taught everyone that we definitely need to diversify our economy. When you talk about Political Self-Determination, the right to determine our destiny – we also need to talk about Economic Self-Determination. We have a three-legged economy on Guam: Tourism, Military Spending and Government of Guam. Two of those three legs, depend on issues beyond our control. When you talk about sustainability – I think that we as a Government have started to realize that we need to create new industries – when our students are bringing home national awards in STEM, culinary, technology and debate to name a few, we clearly have the talent. Let’s tap in to that talent pool and help our son’s and daughters reach their potential.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

As the record will reflect, I have on numerous occasions brough these same points up to the Department of the Navy in my comments to the MITT – specifically relating to the firing range. Working closely with the Leon Guerrero Tenorio Administration, we invoked Stipulation XIII to call for a temporary halt on the clearing of our sacred lands to allow for further studies. At the end of the day, I share the sentiments of the community when we receive studies from DoD experts while our local experts disagree. As such, I have been made aware that there are over a dozen future archaeologists at the University of Guam that are on their way to one day be the local experts we need to bring parity to this issue.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

I think that the CLTC should be an autonomous entity and just like the OPA – be able to be an independent entity free from influence of the Legislature or Adelup. Its Commission members should be elected by the People, and this way they will be accountable to the People they represent. What I do urge my colleagues to do, especially now as we are in budget season, is to adequately fund the CLTC – so that they can carry out their mission mandates. At the end of the day, this is our People’s land – why are we not giving it back?

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Going back to my previous answer, and as the question states “military studies” are what is telling us what will happen should the buildup goes through as planned. I am not going to pretend to be the expert here, and I am honored to be the mother of an Agriculture Major who is able to explain these studies to me. Our local sons and daughters and brilliant – the University of Guam has made strides to become one of the best Marine Biology institutions in the world. Let’s tap in to the potential we are blessed with and conduct our own studies and make our case to protect our vulnerable resources

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

For this Buildup to be mutually beneficial to Guam – we need to go to a One Guam approach. Today, we have over 30,000 unemployed – yet, just this week I was notified that multi-million dollar buildup-related contracts were awarded to off-island companies. Many of these companies, do not even pay local taxes.

While we advocate for visa waiver’s and exemptions for skilled labor for Guam – I personally think we need to invest in local trade academies, so that we can capitalize on our workforce, and provide for local families.

Q1

Name:

Joe Shimizu San Agustin

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Senator, Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

I am actually looking forward to working closely with organizations or individuals who want to further food sovereignty efforts on Guam by creating legislation to support this endeavor.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

The complex history of Guåhan’s Political status has been ongoing for some time now. My understanding of such issues has allowed me to analyze my own opinion. If we all work together and understand the challenges we faced as an island throughout history this will help us know what we desire to be and our island to be. Our choice of political status should not be a choice for the government to make, but for our indigenous CHamoru brothers and sisters. As a CHamoru man and public leader, I understand that I have a pivotal role in our fight for our right to self-determination. In any political status that we will attain, I am confident that Guahan has all the right tools to make it work and allow us to negotiate better deals with any nation that will become our ally.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

Together with the government agencies and non-profit organizations, we can all work together to educate and make the community understand the importance of self-sustainability for our island. As we educate the public on self-sustainability, we not only allow them to understand the importance but we are also giving them the opportunity to practice sustainable living.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I understand that it is important to protect our cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment most especially as the military buildup on Guam moves forward. The active conversation and participation in this process have asserted Guam’s efforts in preserving our culture and protecting our environment. I stand ready to provide support for legislation that upholds our cultural heritage.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

The CLTC should be protected. For improvement I would revisit the systems in place to make sure the trustees are able to access their lands so they may develop it for the intention of residential or agricultural use. Trustees should be able to realize their goals with the support of the government of Guam so that future generations have a link to their past and a connection to their family.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

Clean water and protecting our aquifer is very important. In May 2020, the Navy and the Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance partnerships to share critical infrastructure data to improve the island’s water and wastewater systems as a shared goal to improve quality of service for both military and local communities. I am hopeful that this MOU will further reinforce the need to protect our waterways for the betterment of our people. Actively engaging the people of Guam continues to build a stronghold for the position of protecting our aquifer for the sake of future generations. We all must work together to ensure that the federal government is doing all they can to uphold Guam’s resources for our island and our people.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

While funds will be generated from military presence and the buildup, it is crucial that my colleagues and I continue to work together to find alternate yet reliable ways to fund public services for our community. We rely too much on outside sources to fund the needs of our people and it is now time to focus on building a sustainable Guam. Shifting Guam’s agriculture practices to go beyond a supplemental income should definitely be our next move in diversifying our economy.

Congressional Candidates:

Q1

Name:

Robert A Underwood

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Delegate, U.S. House of Representatives

Democrat

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

There is nothing more basic in human existence than having the capacity to be self-sufficient especially in the management of the food that we consume to sustain life. Guahan is clearly a long way from food sustainability let alone food sovereignty. But we should establish goals now which increase the percentage of the food we consume to be grown locally in a responsible way that minimizes harm to the land and use of harmful chemicals. In developing the Center for Island Sustainability at the University of Guam, this was one of the organizing principles. We would not only grow more food, but find new approaches to agriculture and aquaculture which would promote health, safety and sustainability. Food sovereignty goes beyond increased local agricultural production. It localizes the cycle of farm to table and has many positive spin-off effects on net energy use while enhancing the nutritional benefits of the food we consume.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

There are two dimensions to the right to CHamoru self-determination. I believe that there is a moral imperative to honor this right to all indigenous peoples which have been colonized. This has clearly been the case for the CHamoru people of Guam and the Marianas since the arrival of Europeans who claimed this land as their own. Secondly, there is a legal obligation which the United States has through the Treaty of Paris, the United Nations Charter and even the creation of the Organic Act of Guam This is a case that can be made at the federal level and internationally by understanding what has happened to Guam and her people over the centuries. I remain committed to the exercise of CHamoru Self-determination as the first step toward any permanent political status change.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

There is no more important task for an island community like ours than to find a way to secure our future in a sustainable way. The 10 year plan grew out of the G3 Working Group primarily organized by the UOG Center for Island Sustainability. The CIS came into existence under my leadership at the University of Guam for this exact purpose – to find a way to live sustainably in our economy, society and, especially our use of the natural resources that we have. This particular plan is based on the United Nation’s call for 17 Sustainable Development Goals. While the goals are far-reaching, they should inspire us in our policy-making today at both the local and federal level. I endorse the framework and will work hard to cooperate with community organizations, GovGuam agencies and educational institutions to implement it.

If elected, I will host a Capitol Hill Sustainable Conference in Washington DC which will bring together key Guam participants from public, private and community sectors with Congressional leadership and federal agencies. Through this effort, we can identify federal partners for resources and support for Guam’s Sustainable Development Goals. Needed legislation can be identified and developed in a collaborative and effective way.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

It is simple. They should be protected and the Department of Defense should be required to help us do it in accordance with federal law and respect for the island. The State Historic Preservation Officer and Archeologists have pointed out that DOD construction of a parking lot has permanently damaged significant sites. A revision of the programmatic agreement is needed and the Delegate’s office should step in to facilitate those changes as needed in collaboration with the Government of Guam and community organizations.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

The CHamoru Land Trust Commission should be protected in local legislation in accordance with any agreements with the U.S. Department of Justice. However, I believe it still needs strengthening through federal legislation recognizing the unique history of the CHamoru people. I will introduce such legislation which will ensure its continuity under federal law and provides federal assistance for its continuing implementation.

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

The protection of our aquifer must remain central to our existence as an island and as a people. It may be the greatest natural asset that Guam has. It must be monitored carefully in two ways regardless of the activity or inactivity of the military. First, the science of understanding the adverse impact of the Live Firing Training Range Complex must be conducted independent of the Department of Defense to ensure complete objectivity and reliability. I will advocate continued study of the impact at the federal level in a fair manner. Secondly, the use of local scientists and agencies such as WERI at the University of Guam and local community groups must be part of the review process of any conclusion. Knowledgeable community groups must be part of the process of review.

Litekyan is probably the single most historic site in Guam. It represents two distinct cultural phases of the ancient CHamoru past (latte and pre-latte). It was also attacked by Spanish soldiers and burnt to the ground on at least two occasions in the 1600s. Lastly, it stands as testimony to a series of federal land-takings which highlight the injustices of the current ownership and management of the land. It must be guarded and protected.

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

Boom and bust cycle economies do not enhance permanent sustainability. This does not mean that we should not take advantage of federal/military opportunities on behalf of our local entrepreneurs and work force. If there are even short-term benefits in the economy, local companies and workers should take precedence. Preventing a downturn is up to our ability to diversify our economy and dependent upon the implementation of our sustainability efforts. I think a knowledge-based economy based on research can lead to the growth of a vibrant, private sector economy. Agriculture, biosciences, health care, coral reef research, information technology and aquaculture all provide opportunities for high tech entrepreneurship if the science is there and our young people have the vision. I believe that we can move from an economy dependent upon external funding to an economy based on internal knowledge. That is the key to dealing with boom and bust.

Q1

Name:

Wil Castro

Q2

What office are you running for and what is your political affiliation?

Guam Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives

Q3

As an island leader, how would you support Guåhan in food sovereignty efforts?

The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact have brought into sharp focus the need for self sustainability; in particular, the long lines at food distribution centers, and the non-culturally relative foods imported and distributed highlight the need to continue to take substantive steps toward food sovereignty as an aspect of sustainability.

A key strategy to achieve food sovereignty is to approach the issue as a geographic and regional issue, acknowledging that Guåhan is naturally part of a larger archipelago, one that has been divided only politically. Our shared cultural values, common interest in protecting our natural resources and common need for food security are valid reasons for collaboration.

I have worked at the local and regional level to further the cause of food sovereignty. I have initiated discussions and will continue to advocate for the production, purchase, and distribution of specific crops among the Marianas; these efforts are manifest in One Marianas initiative.

I will remain committed to these efforts and will build bridges to establish relationships and tentative agreements between and among the islands, and work at the federal level to change policies that are prohibitive to this end.

Q4

What is your understanding of and position on the complex history of Guåhan's political status and the CHamoru right to self-determination?

Self determination is a universal principle, and the first step to self-governance. Guåhan’s current political status as an unincorporated territory is one of nothingness, of non-self governing, and the status quo is a status of subjugation, a historical injustice, that denies the indigenous people, the CHamoru people, the right to determine our destiny for ourselves.

I truly believe that we can and will be a great CHamoru nation within the American family. My personal preference is statehood. There are fewer unknown variables. The Federal-State relationship is well defined and risk to human security is easier to mitigate as a state with two full fledged U.S. Senators and a Representative in Congress.

However, as a candidate for Congress, my preference takes a back seat to the expressed political will of the qualified voting electorate.

I shall faithfully advocate for the status option chosen by the CHamoru people.

Q5

In the current socio-political climate and uncertainty surrounding Guåhan's economy due to COVID-19, it is more important now than ever for our island to be self-sustainable. How will you support Guåhan in becoming more self-reliant in alignment with GovGuam's 10-year action plan on sustainability?

My objective as Guam’s delegate, if elected, is to establish a federal-territorial policy framework that would allow for the creation of new, or the growth of existing, initiatives related to each sustainability goal outlined in the plan.

My goal is to establish greater control and self-governance, in order to initiate and sustain the activities related to each goal within the GovGuam 10 year action plan.

For example, revisiting federal policies such as the Commerce Clause, and working to eliminate taxes or tariffs to encourage free trade among the Mariana Islands, trading goods and commodities, resulting in reasonable cost to the consumer, is one practical step toward the goal of eliminating poverty.

Q6

What is your understanding of and position on the protection of CHamoru cultural heritage sites, ancestral burial sites and environment relative to the ongoing construction and impending operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex?

I am firmly on the side of a responsible buildup, including construction of the Live Fire Training Range Complex, that does not compromise the things we value as the indigenous people of Guåhan, this great CHamoru nation; protection of our environment, protection of sacred sites, including ancient burial sites, and sustainable Pacific way of life, living off the ocean and land, fishing and farming. A responsible buildup requires that each of these protections be observed.

It is a moral, legal, and political responsibility of the elected leaders of Guåhan, including Guam’s delegate, to ensure that alleged infractions in violation of any programmatic agreement are investigated immediately and in a manner that is transparent and widely communicated, and ultimately resolved in a manner that is win-win for all stakeholders.

I am in support of any buildup that does not erode on culture, language, indigenous species, and sacred lands.

Q7

What is your position on protecting the Chamorro Land Trust Commission and what will you do to improve the systems in place for the benefit of past and future trustees?

*

Q8

An estimated 6.7 million bullets would be shot above our Northern Guam Lens Aquifer each year that the firing range is in operation. Military studies have stated the military relocation may result in the over pumping of our sole source aquifer and subsequent salt water intrusion. What is your understanding on the protection of our aquifer and adverse impacts from the construction and operation of the Live Fire Training Range Complex and the Marine relocation to Guam?

*

Q9

Considering military studies have stated the economic impacts of the buildup would be like a "boomtown" effect, in which Guam's economy will experience a rapid boom and then a steep decline, what is your position on economic drivers surrounding the military buildup?

*