Mother’s Day is back as one of the biggest celebrations of the year

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoa joins the rest of the nation today, Sunday May 14 in celebration of Mother’s Day, which was designated on the second Sunday in May each year by the US Congress, via a joint resolution approved May 8, 1914.

And the territory is enjoying a more elaborate celebration this year without the COVID-19 lock down that American Samoa faced last year as the deadly pandemic spread locally. With all COVID restrictions no longer in place, family members and churches are staging large-scale celebrations and are hoping for good weather on this partly cloudy day.

Mothers who work in government can look forward to a day of rest tomorrow,  Monday May 15, as it’s been declared by the governor as an ASG holiday to commemorate 98 years of partnership of Swains Islanders with American Samoa and the U.S.

In his annual Mother’s Day message, Gov. Lemanu P.S Mauga points out that a “mother’s bond with her child is unlike any other. Her love is boundless, knowing no limits. Nothing in this world compares to a mother’s love.”

“Motherhood is among the most difficult and demanding work imaginable. Mothers go about their daily lives with strength, dedication, and tireless service to others. For generations, they have reared and inspired nations,” he said.

“Today, and always, we celebrate and acknowledge the significance of a mother’s love, sacrifice, and strength. We honor these extraordinary women who stand as the strongest pillars in our lives,” the governor said.

Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata in her Mother’s Day message said: “Motherhood is a great responsibility and a beautiful opportunity to guide and inspire your children.”

“Our moms forever hold a special place in our hearts. We owe them so much. They are our strongest supporters, most trusted advisers, and provide love and comfort like no one else! Mother's Day is a wonderful time to tell your mother of your love and appreciation, or hold her memory close,” she added.

Churches in the territory are holding special services that include the involvement of mothers, who will perform skits, sing and read bible versus. After church, is Mother’s Day to’ana’i, during where mothers are treated as royal members of the family and — yes they are, mother’s are royal.

And there are restaurants offering specials for Mother’s Day brunch — it’s Mama’s day off — no clean up, no organizing and no obligations — except to look and feel beautiful and be appreciated and loved.

This week past week some in the public and private sectors held luncheons for mothers at their places of employment. At StarKist Samoa, a special Mother’s Day event called — “Tina Lelei” — took place on Thursday for the company’s mothers, where they were honored. This is one of the events marking its StarKist’s 60th Anniversary in the territory.

And Friday, at the cannery, fathers of various departments treated mothers to lunch. This is an annual event for StarKist for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

As residents of American Samoa enjoy this special day, police are beefing up road patrols to ensure a safe Mother’s Day weekend in American Samoa.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL MOTHER EVERYWHERE!