I remember growing up on Guam, we only celebrated Chamorro week. It was something that we looked forward to in school because it gave us an excuse to get out of classes and experience the local treats. We would have coconut frond weaving demonstrations, coconut candy making, coconut husking and grating competitions. If it had anything to do with being Chamorro, it was done - and done well!
In high school, the competitions went as far as hut building! This was always the highlight of the week. About a month before the competitions, different organizations within the school would register for said competition. One week before the competition was slated to be judged, the groups would get together after school to plan and construct their structures. On the Friday of Chamorro week, school would let out at around 10am and everyone would head to the field for a huge fiesta and for the judging and festivities. It was always something that we anticipated.
Rather than drone on about the competition, I will just say that it was always quite an event! People would show up in their traditional(Spanish era) mestisas and there would be dancing, eating, and games of all sorts. It was something that made us proud to be Chamorro. I believe it played a big role in the pride I have in being from Guam, today! It showed the hospitality of the Chamorro people in that we welcomed people from all backgrounds in to our festivities and showed them the acceptance that you hear so much about when someone talks about people from Guam. Most of all, it gave us a chance to learn about our culture through experience.
Today, I am not sure to what extent this is celebrated. I know that there are still local exhibits in the island businesses. There are specials run by restaurants highlighting the local food and drink. In schools, there are spirit days where the school children can wear their island garb. I believe they have eliminated the hut competition and school wide fiesta due to some unfortunate incidents that arose some years ago. Unfortunately, the times are catching up on our island youth and there are a lot of outside influences that alter the way locals react to certain situations. But, it is a sign of growth.
What we, as an island culture, have to realize is this; if we are to remain proud of our heritage, we must keep it alive. There is nothing wrong with change. But, we have to remain aware of our roots and make our ancestors proud. The land, the culture, and the language that they fought so hard to keep intact are definitely something that we should hold dear to our hearts. It is part of who we are and it connects us, as a people.
Go out, experience our island... It is a beautiful, God given gift that we don't use to it's full potential. Learn the language of our people and use it in your daily life. I am guilty of letting it go by the wayside. But, when I hear it or speak it myself, I realize its beauty. Be proud of our people. Our ancestors were a race that showed great hospitality and love for others. We can grow and change as much as we please... But, we will always need to love one another and show great respect for all people. Ina'fa'maolek is a custom that we have inherited from long ago. Simply put, it means to make better. To live in harmony. It is a custom that we should keep alive in our lives and put in to practice daily. Help your brother... help a friend in need... If you need to, compromise.
I can definitely say, I am proud to be a Chamorro! I will live this month as I have lived my whole life... Not ashamed at all of the culture in which I was raised! Bai hu usa i lenguahita sa debi ta protehi i lenguahi, i kettura, yan i tano'ta! Biba taotao Guahan! Biba mes Chamorro!
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