Date of Graduation

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Asia Pacific Studies (MAPS)

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Asia Pacific Studies

First Advisor

Genevieve Leung

Second Advisor

Nicola Andrews

Abstract

Pacific Islanders have engaged in transnationalism since the time of their early voyages. Ancient wayfinders first learned to read the stars and swells to cross the ocean for a myriad of reasons: trade, opportunity, education, adventure, and more. Today, our borders have stretched beyond those of the Pacific Ocean, from the far reaches of Australia to the corners of Alaska, and yet we still maintain these transnational bonds with our ethnic homelands. One such way we foster these ties and build cultural competency is through talanoa.

Talanoa, a pan-Pacific speech genre, is more than just a form of communication. It is a sacred space of noa, a place of equilibrium, where all participants can engage in heartfelt connection and conversation. Known for being a solutions oriented conversation, it is a traditional practice used by various Pacific Island cultures from discussing everyday topics to having more nuanced conversations about society, politics, and religion. For Pasifika people in the diaspora, the ability to witness and participate in talanoas and their various forms strengthens our transnational ties with our ethnic homelands. In recent decades, with the advent of advanced technology, physical distances have been bridged to some extent by the internet and social networking sites. The same can be said for talanoa and the emergence of e-talanoa. As talanoas transition into the digital realm, this cultural classroom has become even more accessible, particularly for those in the diaspora who are further removed and estranged from our communities.

Although e-talanoa is far from perfect, as it becomes more available, its use and application can be further broadened to bring those in the diaspora into the fold of their island communities and the Oceania community as a whole. By analyzing and participating in various forms of talanoa, its usefulness as a cultural classroom can be explored. Going even further, e-talanoa, as it continues to develop and become available, may be an ideal means to reach and educate diasporic Pacific Islanders, allowing them to strengthen their unique sense of identity.

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