The Pacific in America

ID: WMA2026_647

Track:

Within the common grouping of “Asian Pacific Islander American,” US-based Pacific Islanders are often overshadowed by the larger Asian population and narratives. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, we highlight the Pacific Islander communities that continue to shape American history and culture. Panelists representing valued Pacific Islands arts and community spaces share about their work and the vibrant communities they serve.

Session Information

Format: Regular session/panel (roundtable, single speaker, etc.)

Uniqueness: Given Utah’s 3rd largest U.S. Pacific Islands diasporic population, this is a timely session that centers the value of arts in Pacific Islander communities.

Objectives: Attendees will learn the histories and contexts of Pacific Islander communities in the US, especially in Utah and other Western States. Panelists will share insights about their lived experience in relation to their cultural work, and how they center and promote Pacific Islander values through arts and culture-based programs and projects.

Engagement: While presentational, the audience will be encouraged to ask questions and share their own knowledge and experiences for everyone’s benefit.

Relationship to Theme:

Audience

Audiences: Curators/Scientists/Historians Events Planning Registrars, Collections Managers 

Professional Level: All levels 

Scalability: Topics covered are relevant to all organizations who wish to learn/reinforce best practices for community engagement, relevance, and resonance. Panelists represent organizations of different sizes and resources, applying culturally centered definitions of abundance.

Participants