CNMI Humanities Month proclaimed

Recognizing the importance of the humanities, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang proclaimed October as CNMI Humanities Month yesterday morning at the San Vicente Roundhouse.

Palacios said in his speech that the Commonwealth’s society is diverse, encompassing indigenous cultures and recent migrations from the Pacific and Asia.

Palacios recognized similarities and uniqueness in customs and cultures is a challenge for the humanities.

“That’s why we have this progress to continue, perhaps set up a conversation on how we recognize those differences and, recognize the uniqueness of each of this customs and cultures,” he said.

Apatang then mentioned the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations and the need to maintain cultural traditions amidst diverse ethnic groups in the community.

He emphasized the importance of preserving cultural traditions and documenting cultural practices in books and records to pass them down to future generations.

This year’s theme “Weaving Cultural Narratives” highlights cultural differences within Indigenous and non-indigenous communities as discussed by Northern Marianas Humanities Council chair Gretchen Smith in her keynote address.

She encouraged everyone to explore the islands’ interwoven cultural narratives and uncover diverse stories and perspectives as well as recognize the profound connection between Pacific Islander culture and the ocean, which shapes their identity and oral history.

According to Smith, NMHC archive manager Roberto Santos introduced her to mangåfa‘, a vital principle, that honors the kåhna of the ancestors and underscores its relationship with land and waters.

“The ancient wisdom is experiencing a resurgence and it celebrates the deep bond between community and nature, celebrating the deep bond between community and nature, and emphasizing shared responsibility and collective identity as stewards of both the heritage and the world around us,” added Smith.

Furthermore, Smith mentioned that Pacific Island traditions emphasize community individualism and personal achievement. She said blending these traditions with non-indigenous identities can create inclusive spaces for addressing global challenges.

“The humanities encourage reflection on values such as compassion and empathy, to guide actions.”

Meanwhile, NMHC executive director Leo Pangelinan recognized magalahi and their commitment to promoting awareness of the importance of the humanities in his welcome remarks.

According to Pangelinan, the humanities covers academic subjects like literature, philosophy, history, languages, and the arts. NMHC utilizes these disciplines to understand community experiences and expressions. Their work aims to preserve and promote local cultures, languages, and traditions, fostering unity and identity within the community.

Pangelinan added that NMHC’s projects promote critical thinking, ethics, and reflection for addressing complex life and community issues wherein collaboration and dialogue methods foster understanding and respect. He added the humanities also promote scholarship, studies, educational programs, and civic conversations that enhance cultural heritage and accessibility to ideas.

The site of the proclamation venue was also explained by Pangelinan.

“We choose this site for the proclamation signing to highlight the importance of the roundhouse to our community. Historically, roundhouses were built in select villages on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota as a platform for community meetings, including political campaigns and voting stations during the Trust Territory era,” he explained.

Pangelinan added that the roundhouse held great significance for the village and its people. Efforts were made to rebuild the iconic structure after its demolitions. He then expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to occupy the space and ensure its safety and maintenance.

The proclamation reading were done by Lymmia Macaranas in Chamorro, Que’ana Limes in Carolinian, and Kimberly Mendiola in English.

Mendiola said that the NMHC strengthens humanities through community dialogue. The NMHC and the Office of the Governor will recognize outstanding contributions in the humanities wherein the awards will be given to individuals, donors, and partners who have supported the humanities over the past 33 years, and the event will take place within the month of October.

Mendiola encourages diverse communities to participate in cultural activities, support the NMHC as a platform for discussions, and celebrate the people of the Marianas and their cultural heritage.

Palacios and Apatang were also joined by House Speaker Edmund Villagomez (Ind-Saipan), floor leader Rep. Edwin K. Propst, Education Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Camacho, Juan Pua of the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, NMHC board members, and Rep. Denita Yangetmai (D-Saipan).

The closing remarks was done by NMHC program coordinator Leeani Saralu and the event was concluded with a group photo.

The upcoming events of NMHC for the month are the annual Sengebau Poetry Competition at American Memorial Park on Oct. 11, the Governor’s Humanities Awards on Oct. 17, and the 1st Digital Preservation Lab on Oct. 19 from 10am to 3 pm at NMHC office at Spring Plaza in Gualo Rai.