Support Rallies for Whittier Family Charged with Illegal Voting
ANCHORAGE (Anchorage Daily News/Pacnews) — Dozens rallied outside the Anchorage courthouse on Friday to support a family of Whittier residents from American Samoa, arraigned on charges of illegal voting. This case could significantly impact the national movement advocating for full citizenship rights for U.S. territory-born individuals.
Alaska state prosecutors argue the family voted illegally, as American Samoans are classified as U.S. nationals rather than citizens, unlike individuals from Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories. Prosecutors allege the family misrepresented their status on election forms. Ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, the family members face felony charges carrying potential sentences of up to 10 years.
In a noteworthy response, the Whittier City Council recently passed a resolution urging amendments to the state constitution to extend voting rights to U.S. territory citizens. Neil Weare, co-founder of Right to Democracy, emphasized that this is the first instance of American Samoans being prosecuted purely based on their birthplace. The nonprofit is providing legal representation for Tupe Smith, a family member charged with voter fraud.
At the rally, attendees participated in a prayer and sang “Lo Ta Nu’u,” a traditional Samoan song. Nine family members pleaded not guilty in court, with one member scheduled for arrainment next week. Most defendants were provided public defenders after expressing they could not afford private counsel.
Michael Pese, a charged family member and volunteer firefighter, underscored the disparity in treatment, stating, “If America goes to war, we get drafted, but we don’t have the vote.” He noted the family’s ten-year residence in Whittier and reaffirmed their commitment to remain in the community.
Whittier Mayor Dan Blair described the situation as unsettling, particularly following an incident where Alaska State Troopers conducted an extensive investigation of the family, raising concerns of intimidation within the community.
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Photo credit www.mvariety.com
