Honoring culture, community, and compassion was at the forefront after Senator Shelly Calvo and Sen. Sabina Perez recognized two groups making lasting impacts on Guam.

First, a celebration of culture and the next generation keeping it alive.

Astumbo Middle School received a certificate of recognition after earning first place in the middle school division for Kånta, Lålai yan Baila at this year’s Inacha’igen Fino’ CHamoru Cultural Competition.

The 22 students, alongside their cultural arts teachers, were commended for their performance, and for strengthening CHamoru language and identity through the arts.

“When you sing, when you chant, when you dance, you are doing more than just performing. You are carrying forward the voices of our island’s ancestors…You are keeping the language alive and you are reminding all of us that the strength of Guam's identity lies in the next generation,” said Calvo.

Senator Calvo also recognized all participating schools, saying the competition is about more than winning, but a shared commitment to preserving CHamoru heritage.

Sen. Perez added that effort starts at home.

“Part of our culture is family, right? We have to work as a family, as a collective. to stay rooted in your culture is going to serve you a long way in your lifetime and never forget where you’re from,” said Perez.

And for teachers, the win isn’t just the trophy.

“I know that the kids worked really hard for this competition and winning first place was great, but besides that I think what they learned the most was the camaraderie of coming together and expressing themselves…Si Yu’os Ma’åse for recognizing that,” said Johnathan Perez.