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Lawmakers push for memorial honoring Guam's ancestors

July 08, 2024 | General Government Operations and Appropriations , Legislative, Guam



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This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

Lawmakers push for memorial honoring Guam's ancestors
In a recent government meeting, Guam lawmakers discussed Bill 264, which aims to allocate $5 million for the construction of the Nafden Manai Nata Shrine, a memorial dedicated to the ancestors of the Chamorro people. The bill's author, Sejulis Mosse, emphasized the historical significance of the site, located on the Timuning Cliff, which is recognized as the only documented location of victory during the Spanish-Chamorro wars.

Mosse highlighted the long-standing commitment made by the Guam legislature over three decades ago to honor the remains of ancestors disturbed by development and archaeological research. She noted that many of these remains are currently stored in inadequate conditions, awaiting a dignified final resting place. The proposed shrine is intended to serve as a respectful memorial for approximately 1,000 individuals, allowing the Chamorro community to reflect on their heritage.

The discussion also touched on the moral responsibility of the local government to fund the project, rather than relying on federal grants. Mosse stated that it is the duty of the people of Guam to care for their ancestors, reinforcing the idea that this investment is a matter of cultural and historical significance.

Mosse expressed her willingness to adjust the appropriated amount based on financial insights from government experts and to collaborate with colleagues to ensure the bill receives unanimous support before being sent to the governor. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to fulfilling a promise made to the ancestors of Guam, aiming to bring closure to a chapter in the island's legislative history.

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