Samoan Flag Day 2009 wrapped up an excess of $35,000 of subsidies in support of the community event in Carson, CA this past week.  Chiefs and local leaders of the Samoan Federation, Inc are perhaps some of the most profound community organizers I have come to know. 

How do you get that much money and support from local officials?

High Chief Loa Pele Faletogo, Executive Director of the Samoan Federation, Inc would simply smile and tell you, "It's all in the relationship.  We have been doing this work for the last 24 years for our people, Val...  We don't ask for much, just enough."

Perhaps this has been the key ingredient for Samoans to enjoy the only event of its kind in the region.  That "just enough" style of politicking that gets things done and get's elected officials to commit resources, staffing, equipment, and free money during a recession.  I was given a tremendous opportunity to shadow HC Loa and the rest of the Samoan Federation this past week and I was completely smitten by their work.

Flag Day this year, although occassionally met with unfound criticism, was well attended by over 5000 people, mostly Samoans, daily.  It was lovely being immersed all week in all things Samoan-- the music, dancing, comedy, big band performances, cricket, rugby, food, koko Samoa (Samoan rich dark chocolate cocoa), island wear and my fave- the heirloom jewelry.  Gotta have it.  It was as if I was transported on island all over again with an "I HEART FLAG DAY" plastered on my forehead.

"We're going to make sure this event is funded in the future," said City of Carson Mayor Pro-Tem Lula Davis-Holmes.  Samoan Flag Day reflects the rich diversity of the City of Carson that we are very proud of."

I typically have reservations about political rhetoric, but for some reason Ms Lula's remark seemed rather genuine.  I watched her stay for the entire show while others began to exit.  She avidly cheered, laughed and appeared to be enjoying the authentic Samoan performances from the church youth groups.

Mike Gipson, Councilman of the City of Carson, also told me how proud he was to be there and that he's looking forward to another 24 years of Samoan Flag Day going strong.  Had a chance to also catch City of Gardena Councilman Dan Medina, who also expressed his support of the community event.

The City of Carson has a lot at stake here as the home of Samoan Flag Day, the signature event for the Samoan community. 

Thanks to High Chief Loa, I now have a renewed appreciation for "Just Enough" politics.  It really means, asking for everything and letting the politicians have a difficult time saying no.  Sure did work for Samoan Flag Day organizers as this year's event was successful, safe, and well attended.

Organizing for our communities isn't as hard as it seems... we just need to up our chieftan skills and perfect the art of oratory silence.  I figure, the more we say the more foolish we sound.  In this case, Less is definitely More.

Congratulations to the Samoan Federation of America Inc, for a succesful 24th Annual Samoan Flag Day 2009.  I look forward to next year's Silver Jubilee.