A three-day training on strangulation, dynamics of child sexual abuse, sexual assault examinations, and prosecution of child physical abuse and neglect opened Monday at the DWYA Center in Tafuna.
Organized by the women’s organization, Pae ma le Auli, in partnership with the Department of Youth and Women Affairs, Criminal Justice Planning Agency, and the American Samoa Alliance Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, the training is being conducted by experts in the field from the mainland and Hawaii. Included in the discussion is a proposal to establish a Children Justice Center in American Samoa.
Rev. Elder Fouvale Asiata opened the training with a prayer and spoke about the title of the training, Tiu Le Latasi, which speaks to unity in confronting social ills that have plagued families—including the abuse of women and children, drugs, and other issues.
Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula said the topics covered in the training are very important because they affect every family. He added that sometimes its relatives who are perpetrators of abuse.
The Governor said that in this first year of their administration, it is very important to be mindful of and sensitive to the abuse taking place in our families—especially with women and children who are abused by their husbands or boyfriends. He stressed it was necessary to build up families, because: If families are strong, our community is strong. If families are weak, our community are weak.
The Governor thanked Pae ma le Auli and paid tribute to its President, Leiataua Leuga Turner, and also victims advocate Ipu Lefiti. He also expressed appreciation to the experts from off-island who are conducting the training.
Attorney Suzanne Tiapula Mamea, one of the team leaders, said without the leadership of the government, they would not be here.
Ms. Tiapula Mamea gave her expectations of the training.
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The training continues Tuesday and concludes Wednesday. Attendees include police offers, EMS personnel, and social workers.
