Building Capacity for African American Histories in American Samoa
GrantID: 76069
Grant Funding Amount Low: $50,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $150,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Reviving Cultural Narratives in American Samoa
American Samoa's unique geographical position and complex historical ties to the United States give rise to significant challenges in preserving and documenting African American histories on the islands. Notably, the presence of Black soldiers during World War II had a profound effect on local culture, yet comprehensive records and narratives of these interactions are scarce. Current estimates suggest that at least 70% of local educational curricula overlook the contributions and experiences of African Americans in shaping Samoan society.
Local stakeholders, comprising educators, historians, and cultural organizations, face challenges in accessing accurate historical information and resources necessary for educating the community about these intertwined histories. This sentiment is echoed by the broader community, which often feels a disconnection from the narratives associated with their past, particularly those pertaining to Indigenous and African American experiences. Without funding and resources, efforts to revive and celebrate these narratives face significant hurdles.
This grant funding opportunity provides critical support to initiatives aimed at documenting and preserving the rich history shared between African Americans and the people of American Samoa. Eligible applicants include local community groups, educational organizations, and preservation agencies seeking to create projects focused on these historical narratives. Projects may involve the development of mobile exhibitions or educational programs that explore the influence of Black soldiers on local culture and community identity.
Potential funding recipients should prioritize engaging local youth in project activities, enabling them to conduct research and participate in storytelling initiatives that highlight their unique cultural landscape. By doing so, these projects stand to not only educate but empower the next generation to appreciate their historical context, fostering cross-cultural understanding and respect that transcends geographical boundaries.
The Implementation Strategy for American Samoa
The expected outcomes of this funding initiative revolve around the creation of a comprehensive narrative that accurately reflects the historical significance of African American influences in American Samoa. This is critical in solidifying the local and national understanding of these cross-cultural dynamics, especially in educational frameworks that have historically overlooked these contributions.
Given American Samoa's diverse demographic makeup, fostering an appreciation for the intersection of African American and Samoan histories enriches the local identity and strengthens community bonds. Educational campaigns that highlight these narratives can play a role in bridging cultural gaps and facilitating a more inclusive understanding of history.
Effective implementation of funded projects will require collaboration with local schools, cultural institutions, and community leaders. By engaging these entities, grant recipients can create impactful educational resources and events that resonate within the community. Workshops, cultural festivals, and exhibition openings are strategies to encourage attendance and participation, igniting interest in these often-overlooked narratives. In this way, the funding provides not only financial support but also an opportunity to deepen community engagement, ultimately fostering a richer, more inclusive historical consciousness across American Samoa.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
