Written by:  Jennifer F. Tofaeono, MBA, Executive Director
As we come to the end of our second year with our CDC Rape Prevention & education program, as the Executive Director I share that we are navigating a landscape of uncertainty about the federal administration’s future direction for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  We have not been informed about the upcoming funding allocations, and the specific details remain unclear.  Even with all that, as the Executive Director of the American Samoa Alliance against Domestic & Sexual Violence, I want to assure the community we stand committed to ensuring the community continues learn about sexual violence.

This program awarded by CDC for Rape Prevention is important, as it supports initiatives aimed at preventing sexual violence through education and community engagement.  Despite the uncertainty surrounding federal support, I can say that the Alliance Team and Board are steadfast in our dedication to support this vital work.  We are actively looking at alternative funding sources to maintain and expand our prevention efforts through other grants.  This approach is alignment with our mission to combat sexual violence that continues to remain a central focus, regardless of federal funding lapses.

It is important that we remain transparent, and the Alliance will continue to keep our community informed about developments regarding the CDC RPE Program and our related activities.  We humbly ask for your support and commitment as it is crucial while we adapt to the changes and continue our work to create safer, more informed community.  Together we will continue our efforts to prevent sexual violence and support survivors by restating our commitment. 

Written by:  Jennifer F. Tofaeono, Executive Dir

The American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic & Sexual Violence is proud to continue its work through the CDC’s Rape Prevention and Education (RPE) Program. This critical initiative is designed to stop sexual violence before it occurs—by addressing the root causes of rape, promoting healthy relationships, and advancing primary prevention strategies tailored to our unique cultural context.

It has been an honor to continue our work thru the CDC Rape Prevention & Education (RPE) Program.  The critical purpose of the grant is to stop sexual violence BEFORE it happens.  Thru our work we unpack conversations about the root causes of rape, we encourage promoting healthy relationships and advancing primary prevention strategies through the project to stop sexual violence before it happens.  All these approaches are designed to meet the needs of native Samoan indigenous people, and other Pasifika Islanders (i.e. Fijian, Tongan, Maori, etc) who reside in American Samoa.

At its core, the RPE Program supports community-based prevention, working with indigenous Samoan youth, families, educators, and community leaders to reshape attitudes and beliefs surrounding sexual assault. In American Samoa, the Alliance integrates Fa’aSamoa values—such as fa’aaloalo (respect), alofa (compassion), and tautua (service)—into all educational efforts to ensure messages are both culturally grounded and transformative.

Through surveys, interviews, and focus groups, we continue to learn from our community about their views on sexual assault. These conversations reveal important insights: many still find it difficult to talk openly about rape, and some are unsure of how to support survivors or prevent harm. This feedback shapes the work we do. For example, we are developing more youth-centered workshops and increasing outreach through schools and churches, where trusted relationships can help break the silence and promote change.

The RPE Program also emphasizes the importance of bystander intervention, consent education, and the prevention of dating violence. These tools empower individuals to recognize unsafe situations, speak up, and support one another. Prevention education does not only protect future victims—it fosters a culture of safety, accountability, and healing.

By listening to our community and building prevention rooted in both research and tradition, we can shift harmful norms and reduce the risk of sexual violence in our homes, schools, and villages.
As we move forward, the Alliance remains committed to raising awareness, building resilience, and advancing healing through education. Let us continue this work together, guided by the Word—spoken with truth, shared with purpose, and lived through action.
​
If you are interested in participating in a survey, interview, or focus group to share your voice and help shape our prevention efforts, we welcome your input. Please contact our Communications Department or Executive Director Jennifer Tofaeono at (684) 699-0272. Our office is open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Join us in creating a safer American Samoa for all.

Written by: Marilyn Ho Ching

The Alliance CDC’s Rape Prevention and Education (RPE) program continues to make significant strides in fostering meaningful conversations on sexual assault prevention and health equity. Through our Young Adults Forum and targeted community outreach, we are empowering the next generation to be informed advocates for change.

Our Communications Team has been diligently administering surveys and facilitating discussions to better understand perceptions, gaps, and opportunities in these crucial areas. These efforts have enabled us to create spaces where young adults can openly share their perspectives and contribute to ongoing solutions.
 
Engaging Forums & Meaningful Conversations
On February 10, the LDS YSA Ward hosted a Young Adults Forum that welcomed 40 participants. The discussion was vibrant and insightful, with participants actively engaging in conversations about sexual assault prevention and its direct link to health equity. The open dialogue allowed for the exchange of ideas on how to create safer, healthier communities where everyone has access to the resources they need.
 
On February 26, our team conducted a survey at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) with Derek Helshams’ Substance Abuse class. This engagement provided valuable insights into the connection between substance abuse, sexual violence, and broader health disparities. The findings from this survey will play a key role in shaping future initiatives and prevention strategies.
​
Moving Forward with Purpose
The insights gained from these discussions and surveys are instrumental in guiding our next steps. By continuing to engage young adults in these critical conversations, we are reinforcing the importance of education, advocacy, and community-driven solutions. The RPE program remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to drive impactful change and promote a culture of prevention and support.

We extend our gratitude to all participants and partners who have contributed to these important discussions. Your voices matter, and together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community.

For more information on upcoming forums and how to get involved, please contact Alliance CDC’s RPE program team. Let’s continue this journey toward prevention, awareness, and health equity.

Written by:  Jennifer F. Tofaeono, Ex Director

Over the past year the Alliance has begun the critical process of addressing sexual assault, rape in the territory.  The funding from CDC Rape Prevention is centered on how to address rape in the territory, by focusing on education, and community discussions to increase awareness to reduce the prevalence of sexual violence.  By  using a Fa’aSamoa lens that is centered on our values our goal is to create safer spaces for individuals and families while increasing dialogue about a pressing issue in the territory, sexual assault.

The CDC Rape Prevention Project
Through funding by Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) the Alliance is educating our local Samoan community to mitigate the incidence of sexual violence.  It helps to promote knowledge about the prevention strategies and strengthens wellness approaches for victims.  In American Samoa, the Alliance is developing unique cultural and social context approaches focused on the youth and underrepresented groups in our community. 

The priority of the CDC Rape Prevention project is to create education campaigns, outreach programs and community assessments.  Within these projects our organization builds prevention focused on defining consent, healthy relationships and provides resources for survivors.  It is our intention to integrate Fa’aSamoa principles, centered on fa’aaloalo (respect), and aiga (family) bonds into prevention strategies to guarantee significance and effectiveness

Upcoming Event at American Samoa Community College

Over the next few month, the Alliance will work with Community College students at American Samoa Community College (ASCC) to ask them to provide their input on Equity.  Thru this work we will measure students’ knowledge and attitudes toward sexual assault, with a focus on understanding the community’s current education and knowledge about rape prevention.
Along with the survey, we will lead guided discussions for participants to share their thoughts and experiences.  The purpose is to use developed culturally sensitive questions to uncover participants knowledge about processes, any barriers to support and what does the ability for change look like.  We have a long history of working with youth and have found that when we ask them to participate in these discussions they are empowered.  Through these engagements we create a foundation of prevention and resilience within the community.

Why This Work Matters

Sexual violence is a significant issue in American Samoa and the Pacific region. Studies have shown that Pacific Island women face disproportionately high rates of sexual violence compared to global averages. For example, a United Nations report estimated that 64% of women in the Pacific experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. While specific data for American Samoa is limited, anecdotal evidence and community reports suggest that the territory faces similar challenges.
By engaging young people in prevention efforts, the Alliance seeks to address the root causes of sexual violence and foster a culture of safety and respect. Education is a powerful tool for change, and events like the ASCC gathering provide a platform to share knowledge, challenge harmful norms, and empower individuals to act.

Creating Safer Spaces

The Alliance work is comprehensive, as we extend discussions and change beyond prevention.  As we continue with this project we will provide ideas on how to equip families and the community with the necessary tools for resilience.  The information from our community will help us to develop culturally relevant strategies to shift attitudes and behaviors about sexual violence. 

In our February event with ASCC students will be a monumental as we reflect on the impact of sexual violence from the perspective of Samoan young adults.  This will help us to amplify voices that have been silenced and develop a path toward healing and prevention.  When we work in this manner, we can create safer spaces to ensure individuals feel supported, respected and empowered to thrive.

Conclusion
​
The CDC Rape Prevention Project, spearheaded by the American Samoa Alliance, is an important project centered on improving education and prevention in the territory.  Our hosted community events, our ability to canvas our community to provide their ideas which helps us to create culturally sensitive strategies, allows us to pave the way for a future free of sexual violence.  When we work together to gather the stories, engage in conversations to create change we ALL contribute to a safer, healthier American Samoa.
References

• United Nations Population Fund. (2015). "State of Violence Against Women in the Pacific Region."
• CDC Rape Prevention and Education Program.
• American Samoa Alliance reports and community surveys【45†source】.

Written by:  Jennifer Tofaeono, Chat AI
 
Since October the  Alliance Team has been talking with members of the community, and service providers to gather feedback o n health equity and rape prevention education in American Samoa.   What we have so far uncovered has provided us some interesting insights, where respondents provided information on challenges and strengths in our ability to address these critical issues in our island.   

In this article we share some of the key findings from  participants who shared their insights regarding health equity, and  the availability of healthcare services through Medicaid and outreach programs offering free vaccines and flu shots. However, equity remains a concern, particularly for immigrant residents who face higher healthcare costs. Cultural norms, such as prioritizing elders over individuals with urgent medical needs, and language barriers further complicate equitable access. For example, non-Samoan-speaking patients struggle to communicate effectively with medical professionals, leading to misdiagnoses and inadequate care.

Language barriers were repeatedly emphasized as a significant obstacle to accessing healthcare and understanding medical procedures. Additionally, cultural practices often discourage victims of sexual violence from seeking help due to fear of family embarrassment and societal stigma. These challenges perpetuate silence and unaddressed trauma, particularly in cases of incest or intimate partner violence.

When asked what their knowledge was of Rape Prevention Education in the Territory, they underscored the need for enhanced rape prevention education within the community. Suggestions included incorporating comprehensive sex education in schools and churches, focusing on consent, safe sex practices, and recognizing signs of sexual assault. Participants emphasized the importance of community awareness campaigns to dismantle misconceptions about sex education, such as the belief that it encourages sexual activity.

Cultural norms and generational attitudes were identified as barriers to victims seeking support. Despite the availability of resources, victims often face fear and shame that prevent them from accessing help. Workshops addressing mental health and substance abuse were noted as effective but insufficient; participants called for more programs to build community understanding and resilience.

Partners advocated for stronger partnerships between the hospital, law enforcement, and community organizations to enhance rape prevention and support services. The need for training first responders—police, medical personnel, and community leaders—was highlighted to ensure sensitive handling of cases and comprehensive support for victims. Schools, churches, and community groups were identified as critical venues for hosting workshops and raising awareness about rape prevention.

Actionable Recommendations-- (please note these are preliminary discussions)

1. Improve Access to Healthcare: Address affordability and accessibility for immigrants and marginalized groups by exploring policy changes and partnerships.
2. Reduce Language Barriers: Implement interpretation and translation services in healthcare settings to improve communication and understanding.
3. Enhance Rape Prevention Education: Integrate comprehensive sex education in school and church curricula, emphasizing consent and prevention.
4. Strengthen Support Networks: Train first responders and community leaders to provide victim-centered care and build trust in available resources.
5. Increase Resource Visibility: Disseminate information on rape prevention and support services through public spaces such as hospitals, buses, and schools.

What the Alliance will continue to do is gain feedback from community members and service providers the recent discussions underscores the urgency of addressing health equity and strengthening rape prevention education in American Samoa. By fostering partnerships, enhancing education, and reducing barriers, the CDC RPE team can work with local organizations to create a safer and more equitable community. The journey ahead will require collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to empowering all residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

Content and Photo Created by:  Chat AI

The American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic & Sexual Violence, under the leadership of Executive Director Jennifer F. Tofaeono, has made significant strides in advancing community-centered approaches to preventing sexual violence.  Recently, Communications Manager Marilyn Ho Ching, Communications Administrative Assistant Vatau Fanene, Community Trainer Monica Veavea, and Training Manager Judy Matautia completed specialized Key Informant Interview (KII) training. This initiative, as outlined in the Evaluation Plan, underscores the Alliance's commitment to fostering cultural competence, inclusivity, and data-driven strategies.

The Role of Key Informant Interviews

Key Informant Interviews are a cornerstone of the Alliance's approach to engaging stakeholders and understanding the nuanced dynamics of sexual violence in American Samoa. These interviews serve as a platform to connect with community leaders, healthcare advocates, educators, and social service providers, capturing their insights on primary prevention strategies and existing barriers. By adopting the *Talanoa* methodology—a culturally significant dialogue framework—the Alliance ensures that these conversations are authentic, empathetic, and reflective of the lived experiences of participants.

The data collected through KIIs helps identify gaps in resources, cultural sensitivities, and opportunities for targeted interventions. For example, interviews have revealed that community members often feel disconnected from existing prevention efforts due to cultural taboos and limited access to information. Insights like these enable the Alliance to refine its strategies, ensuring they are both relevant and effective.

Engaging the Community and Advocates 

Through the KII process, the Alliance actively engages diverse voices, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration among stakeholders. The training provided by Jennifer F. Tofaeono equipped team members with the skills to conduct these interviews sensitively and effectively, emphasizing the importance of building trust and rapport.

To broaden engagement, the Alliance has reached out to over 400 stakeholders via emails, social media, and word-of-mouth networks, commonly referred to as the "coconut wireless." This multi-pronged approach ensures a wide range of perspectives, including those from underserved populations such as the Fa’afafine community, youth, and women. Stakeholder interviews also highlight systemic challenges, such as socioeconomic disparities and geographic isolation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health (SDOH) that influence vulnerability to sexual violence.

Benefits to the Community

The outcomes of these interviews promise transformative impacts for the community. Some anticipated benefits include:

1. Tailored Interventions: By understanding the unique challenges faced by different groups, the Alliance can design programs that are culturally and contextually appropriate. For instance, incorporating Samoan values such as *Fa’aSamoa* and *fa’aaloalo* ensures that prevention efforts resonate deeply with local norms.

2.Strengthened Partnerships: Engaging stakeholders across sectors—healthcare, education, law enforcement—enhances collaboration and resource sharing, creating a robust support network for victims and advocates.

3. Increased Awareness: Feedback from KIIs is already shaping public awareness campaigns, emphasizing positive messaging in Samoan to challenge stigmas and promote social change.

4. Empowered Advocates: By involving community leaders and advocates in the process, the Alliance cultivates a cadre of informed and motivated individuals who can champion prevention efforts in their spheres of influence.

 Call to Action 

The Alliance has already begun conducting these impactful interviews, but the journey is ongoing. We invite community members, organizations, and advocates to join this effort. Your voice matters, and your insights are crucial to creating safer, healthier communities in American Samoa.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating or learning more, please contact us at (684) 699-0272 or email [email protected]. Together, we can break the silence and build a resilient community grounded in respect and empathy.

 Through the dedicated leadership of Jennifer F. Tofaeono and the collective efforts of her team, the Alliance is not only advancing sexual violence prevention but also redefining community engagement. Key Informant Interviews are more than just a data collection tool; they are a bridge connecting the community’s needs with actionable solutions. By fostering inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration, the Alliance is paving the way for a brighter future, where every individual feels valued and protected.

written by:  Jennifer Tofaeono, AI Chat (photo)
​
At the Alliance every day we actively work on developing solutions for sexual violence prevention with the support of our CDC Rape Prevention Evaluation Program.  The focus of this project requires working together from our staff to community members, to partners and stakeholders to address sexual assault in our community. 

Since 2023, the Alliance has been actively working on Rape Prevention through our funding from Centers of Disease and Control (CDC).  Our focus is to create solutions for sexual violence prevention.  The emphasis is to engage our stakeholders to concentrate on critical health equity issues in American Samoa. Over the next few months, we will share with the community our key activities in collaboration with community leaders and health professionals. When we do this work, we discuss and translate concepts into our local language and unpack our Fa’aSamoa traditions that can help or prevent efforts of prevention for sexual assault.  This requires crucial conversations in safe spaces.

Stakeholder Interviews and Key Informant Sessions 
Currently our Alliance Team is being trained in how to conduct Key Informant Interviews.   The meetings have been held virtually and led by the Executive Director.  In this session we are learning the importance of interviewing our community.  We have identified different members in our community who may have knowledge or experience about the family and sexual assault, as well as what is health equity. We have identified at least 30 stakeholders to interview consisting of leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, and social agencies. From these conversations it will allow us to have an increased understanding of health equity issues.  From this we can create opportunities for collaboration, as we build a new rape prevention project aligned with CDC’s framework. 
As stated, before our team has and continues to undergo intensive training on how to conduct and develop Key Informant Interviews.  To be successful the Alliance recognizes equipping staff on how to lead meaningful discussions with healthcare providers and community leaders. The information we gain from participants will be valuable information that will shape future prevention strategies.
Engaging stakeholders is essential to the success of our prevention efforts. CDC data emphasizes that strong partnerships are critical, particularly in rural communities where health disparities are more pronounced. By working closely with stakeholders, we can co-create solutions that are culturally relevant and sustainable within the unique context of American Samoa. 

Stay Informed and GET INVOLVED!
The Alliance invites community members to follow our progress over the coming months. We are committed to providing regular updates and opportunities for feedback to ensure that our efforts reflect the needs and concerns of the people we serve. 

If you would like to learn more about the CDC Rape Prevention Evaluation Program or participate in future activities, please contact Jennifer Tofaeono, Executive Director, at (684) 699-0272 or via email at [email protected]. Your involvement is crucial in helping us create safer communities and build a healthier future for American Samoa. 

We look forward to working with you to foster change, promote health equity, and prevent sexual violence in our community.

Written by: Vatauomalotetele Fanene

In today's public health landscape, the need for effective violence prevention
strategies is more urgent than ever. The Centers for Disease Control/Rape
Prevention and Education (CDC/RPE) team is actively engaged in tackling this
pressing issue through a series of collaborative webinars with various coalitions.
These initiatives aim not only to share valuable knowledge but also to promote
innovative approaches and best practices that can address the complex
challenges surrounding violence prevention.

The upcoming webinars is to provide valuable insights into the complexities
surrounding violence prevention, particularly through the lens of accessibility and
economic support. This three-part series focuses on the crucial distinction
between the availability of resources and their accessibility to those in need.
While it is essential for communities to have preventative services in place, the
pressing question remains: Are these services truly accessible? The webinars will
explore this dichotomy by identifying barriers that impede access and presenting
case studies that showcase successful strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
Participants will engage in rich discussions aimed at creating environments where
preventive measures can function effectively, ultimately contributing to a
reduction in violence incidence.

1. Cross Program Webinar: Access vs. Availability - Lessons from the Field
2. Strengthening Economic Supports to Prevent Interpersonal Violence

Economic factors have a profound impact on the prevalence of interpersonal
violence. This webinar will delve into the ways in which strengthening economic

supports for families can mitigate risks associated with sexual and intimate
partner violence. By addressing critical issues such as income inequality,
unemployment rates, and gender disparities, this session aims to provide a
comprehensive understanding of how economic stability can serve as a protective
factor against violence. An opportunity to emerge with practical knowledge,
including the ability to articulate the “strengthening economic supports”
approach, and will be equipped with resources and frameworks for effective
implementation.

3. Prevent-Connect Webinars: Institutionalizing LGBTQIA+ Justice in Sexual and
Intimate Partner Violence Prevention

The need for inclusivity in violence prevention strategies has never been more
urgent, particularly for LGBTQIA+ communities. This series will be divided into
three sessions that will address the heightened risks faced by LGBTQIA+ youth,
who experience significantly higher rates of sexual and dating violence compared
to their cisgender and heterosexual peers. The ongoing climate of anti-trans and
anti-queer sentiments necessitates a proactive approach to creating safe and
supportive environments. This webinar will unite dedicated LGBTQIA+ advocates
and activists, emphasizing the importance of uplifting trans joy and inclusion as
values integral to the mission of ending sexual and intimate partner violence.

These webinars serve as vital platforms for networking and collaboration among
coalitions. By sharing insights and experiences, participants can learn from one
another, thereby enhancing their capacity to implement effective strategies
within their respective communities. The CDC/RPE team recognizes that
addressing violence is a complex endeavor that requires a multifaceted approach,
and these cross-program initiatives are essential for fostering a collective impact.

As we look forward to the upcoming webinars, it is evident that the CDC/RPE
team's commitment to violence prevention is resolute. By collaborating with

various coalitions and focusing on critical issues such as access, economic
supports, and LGBTQIA+ justice, we are not only enhancing our understanding of
violence prevention but also paving the way for more inclusive and effective
strategies. The journey towards creating safer environments for all is ongoing,
and participation in these webinars represents

The American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic & Sexual Violence has been awarded funding under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Rape Prevention Education (RPE) program for the next four years. This funding represents a significant opportunity for the Alliance to further its mission of preventing sexual violence within the Samoan community by implementing evidence-based strategies and culturally relevant practices. The workplan for the Alliance CDC Team, consisting of Communications Manager Marilyn Ho Ching, Communications Assistant Vatau Fanene, and Executive Director Jennifer Tofaeono, is centered on building the necessary infrastructure to enhance the internal capacity of the program. This will ensure effective facilitation and monitoring of prevention programs, practices, and policies that align with the unique cultural context of American Samoa.

The primary focus for this year is to develop and strengthen bystander intervention programs through the Social Ecological Model (SEM), which considers the various levels of influence on behavior: individual, relationship, community, and societal. The Social Ecological Model serves as a framework that recognizes the interwoven relationship between these factors and provides a comprehensive approach to preventing sexual violence by engaging individuals, fostering positive relationships, and creating supportive community and societal norms. The Alliance is committed to adapting this model to reflect Fa'aSamoa, the Samoan way of life, ensuring that prevention efforts resonate with the community's cultural values and social structures.

One of the key strategies under this grant is to create and strengthen bystander intervention programs specifically tailored for the Samoan community and other indigenous populations. Bystander intervention is a critical component of sexual violence prevention, as it empowers individuals to recognize and act upon potentially harmful situations before they escalate into violence. The Alliance will explore and adapt existing bystander intervention models that have been successful in similar cultural contexts. For instance, programs like *Bringing in the Bystander* and *Green Dot*, which have been implemented in various indigenous communities, offer valuable insights into how bystander intervention can be effectively promoted within tight-knit and culturally distinct groups.

Over the next few months, the Alliance will focus on conducting or leveraging existing primary prevention capacity assessments with an emphasis on health equity. Health equity in rape prevention education involves ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, sexual orientation, or cultural background, have equal access to resources, education, and support systems that protect them from sexual violence. In the context of American Samoa, where cultural norms and values heavily influence behavior, understanding and addressing health equity is vital to the success of any prevention effort.

To effectively address these issues, the Alliance will conduct interviews with key stakeholders, including community leaders, healthcare providers, educators, and social service agencies. These interviews will assess stakeholders' knowledge and understanding of health equity issues related to rape prevention and identify opportunities for collaboration. Through these discussions, the Alliance aims to uncover gaps in existing programs and resources, as well as cultural barriers that may prevent effective intervention and support. The insights gained will inform the development of tailored strategies that address the specific needs of the Samoan community.

Health equity issues in rape prevention education often stem from systemic inequalities that affect access to services and support. In American Samoa, factors such as geographic isolation, limited healthcare infrastructure, and cultural stigmas surrounding sexual violence can exacerbate these inequalities. For instance, Fa'aSamoa places a strong emphasis on family and communal harmony, which can sometimes discourage victims from speaking out against perpetrators, particularly if they are family members or close associates. Moreover, traditional gender roles may also influence how sexual violence is perceived and addressed within the community, potentially hindering the effectiveness of conventional prevention programs.

To overcome these challenges, the Alliance's work under the CDC RPE grant will prioritize culturally sensitive approaches that respect and incorporate Samoan values. This includes engaging elders and traditional leaders in prevention efforts, utilizing culturally relevant messaging in educational campaigns, and ensuring that intervention programs are accessible to all members of the community, including those in remote areas. By fostering a deeper understanding of health equity and its impact on rape prevention, the Alliance aims to create a more inclusive and effective response to sexual violence in American Samoa.

In conclusion, the CDC Rape Prevention Education grant program provides the American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic & Sexual Violence with a critical opportunity to build capacity and enhance its prevention efforts through culturally informed strategies. By focusing on bystander intervention and addressing health equity issues, the Alliance will work to create a safer and more supportive environment for all members of the Samoan community. As the Alliance moves forward with its workplan, it will continue to engage with stakeholders, assess needs, and develop interventions that align with Fa'aSamoa, ensuring that the community is both empowered and equipped to prevent sexual violence.

**Cited References:**

1. Banyard, V. L., Moynihan, M. M., & Plante, E. G. (2007). *Sexual violence prevention through bystander education: An experimental evaluation.* Journal of Community Psychology, 35(4), 463-481.
2. Nation, M., Crusto, C., Wandersman, A., Kumpfer, K. L., Seybolt, D., Morrissey-Kane, E., & Davino, K. (2003). *What works in prevention: Principles of effective prevention programs.* American Psychologist, 58(6-7), 449-456.
3. World Health Organization. (2021). *Health equity and its role in preventing violence against women.* WHO.
4. Wallerstein, N., & Duran, B. (2010). *Community-based participatory research contributions to intervention research: The intersection of science and practice to improve health equity.* American Journal of Public Health, 100(S1), S40-S46.

Written by:  Jennifer F Tofaeono, Ex Director Photo downloaded from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samoans

The American Samoa Alliance was awarded an additional year thru Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to continue our work thru the Rape Prevention Education (RPE) Program to enhance the capacity for sexual violence prevention across the territory Sexual Assault Coalitions, like the Alliance.  In the application for the grant, we talked about our previous approach to asking the community to share their stories regarding sexual assault in their villages and homes.  The villages we entered are hot spots where the individuals as described as “poor”, where “parents are on drugs” and sadly the victims are primarily children. 

According to the participants of the previous CDC RPE Talanoa sessions held in American Samoa June 2023- June 2024, participants stated the lack of education and awareness is the primary cause of sexual violence and absence of effective preventative actions.  They cited ineffective communication, culture, environmental instability (unsafe spaces, poverty, etc), stigma and shame and personal characteristics of perpetrators (substance abuse, mental health issues, gender-based power) as risk factors. 

In this second year of funding the Alliance plans to address issues of health equity facing our population in American Samoa by addressing barriers to language and poverty.  Using our Samoan language including language for other ethnic groups who reside in American Samoa (Filipino, Chinese, Tongan, etc), where the Alliance will use online resources to help point victims to resources tailored in their cultural needs and language.  We will continue to create community outreach and education to increase prevention about sexual violence and teach prevention strategies to promote healthy relationships and empower individuals to intervene safely.  This will be done with the assistance of our Communications Manager, Ms. Marilyn HoChing, Communications Manager, Ms Vatau Fanene and Executive Director, Jennifer Tofaeono.

We are excited to have you follow our Alliance Team as continue to gather stories with stakeholders to assess their understanding of health equity issues and identify opportunities for collaboration.  We will conduct an equity impact assessment of College Students & Youth groups over the age of 18 to assess its potential impact on students of color, low-income students and Fa’afafine youth. We will continue to build trust and rapport by being transparent and show a genuine commitment to collaboration, as we schedule one on one meetings with stakeholders to discuss their concerns and priorities regarding sexual violence prevention. Our focus will be to work together with partners and the community to strengthen our common goals. Lastly, we will plan 4 meetings with government agencies, community leaders, underserved communities and non-profit organizations to collectively define goals and objectives of the sexual violence prevention initiatives.
​
The next year for CDC Rape Prevention Education thru the Alliance and our local partners will be filled with challenging goals, but we are confident in the ability of the collective community to support this project.  We ask that you continue to follow us every month as we update you on this project.