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American Samoa Flag Raised at National Museum of American History

June 14, 2022

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is welcoming the addition of the flag of American Samoa to the ring of flags surrounding the National Museum of American History, part of the Smithsonian Institution, along the National Mall in the nation’s capital. On Flag Day in the United States (June 14), Attorney General Fainu'ulelei Ala’ilima-Utu represented American Samoa and Governor Lemanu Palepoi Sialega Mauga at the event, which included a ceremony inside the Museum, then a flag-raising outside with the Smithsonian Institution Honor Guard.

The Museum already permanently displayed the 50 state flags and Puerto Rico, and with this ceremony, added the flags of American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Congresswoman Amata had signed a letter, together with the other Representatives from the territories regarding inclusion, and the Museum’s reply indicated they had plans to update the flags and include the territories.

“I’m delighted that American Samoa is now represented among the flags at this Museum, which is visited by millions every year,” said Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata. “Thank you, especially to Attorney General Fainu’ulelei Utu for speaking at the event and representing our Territory and Governor.”

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American Samoa Flag raised at the National Museum of American History

American Samoa flag raised June 14 at the National Museum of American History.

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Attorney General Utu raising the flag with the Smithsonian Institution Honor Guard

Attorney General Utu raising the flag with the Smithsonian Institution Honor Guard.

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Attorney General Utu speaking at the Museum

Attorney General Utu speaking at the Museum.

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The original Star Spangled Banner from the War of 1812 is displayed in a darkened room just behind this backdrop

The original Star-Spangled Banner is displayed in a darkened room behind this backdrop.

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The presentation of the American Samoa flag with Museum Director Dr. Anthea Hartig

The presentation of the American Samoa flag with Museum Director Dr. Anthea Hartig.

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The flags of the territories, along with the US flag and those of the Smithsonian and Museum

The flags of the territories with the US flag and those representing the Museum and Smithsonian.

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Issues:Culture