Building Prevention That Reflects Our Culture: CDC Rape Prevention & Education in American Samoa

Written by:  Jennifer F Tofaeono, MBA, Executive Director ASADSV, AI created Photo
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Preventing sexual violence in American Samoa requires more than information—it requires trust, culture, language, and community connection. Through the CDC Rape Prevention and Education (RPE) Program, the Alliance is focused on prevention efforts that meet people where they are and reflect the values that guide our families and villages.
The RPE Program centers on prevention before harm occurs. This means building understanding, encouraging healthy relationships, and strengthening community responses so sexual violence is less likely to happen in the first place. In our territory, this work must be rooted in fa‘asamoa and shaped by the voices of our people.
What the Community Shared With UsRecent surveys conducted through our RPE work show that many community members—especially young people—are aware of what sexual violence is and recognize it as an issue in American Samoa. Most respondents reported knowing where to get help and believed that education plays an important role in prevention.

When asked what would make the biggest difference in stopping sexual violence, the most common response was clear: talk about it in families and communities. People also emphasized the importance of teaching respect, making sure help is visible and accessible, and strengthening accountability. At the same time, many shared that fear, shame, and cultural pressure still make it difficult for survivors to speak up or seek help.
These responses reinforce what advocates see every day—education matters, but how we talk about sexual violence matters just as much.

What the Alliance Will Be Working On in the Year Ahead:  In the coming year, the Alliance will focus on culturally tailored prevention efforts that reflect what the community has shared. One priority is developing a CDC RPE curriculum designed specifically for American Samoa. This curriculum will integrate Samoan values, storytelling, and open dialogue, while providing clear information about sexual assault, consent, and prevention.
Language access will be central to this work. The Alliance will ensure that materials support Samoan-speaking communities and create space for conversations that feel respectful and relevant. Partnerships with organizations that already lead culturally grounded education—such as the American Samoa Community College—will help strengthen health literacy and expand reach.

Another focus will be building capacity among service providers and advocates. Healthcare providers, law enforcement, educators, and community leaders will be engaged through training that supports survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approaches. These efforts help ensure that when survivors seek help, they are met with understanding, clarity, and support.

How Advocates Can Help Move Prevention ForwardRape prevention is not limited to programs or events—it happens every day through our actions and conversations. Advocates can support prevention in simple, practical ways:

1. Speak clearly and respectfully
   Use language that supports understanding and dignity when talking about consent, respect, and safety.
2. Share trusted resources
   Help people find information by sharing materials, events, and services that already exist in the community.
3. Respond with care and belief
   Listening, believing, and connecting survivors to support can make a lasting difference.

Preventing sexual violence in American Samoa requires ongoing commitment, cultural respect, and shared responsibility. Through CDC Rape Prevention and Education efforts, the Alliance remains focused on building prevention strategies that reflect who we are and support the safety and healing of our communities.