[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 94 (Tuesday, May 31, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E565]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING GUAM'S NATIBU DANCE ACADEMY ON THEIR 27TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. MICHAEL F. Q. SAN NICOLAS

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 31, 2022

  Mr. SAN NICOLAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Guam's 
Natibu Dance Academy (Natibu) for their exceptional talents, acclaimed 
performances, and outstanding commitment as ambassadors of our island 
community, CHamoru heritage, and vibrant Pacific region. I would like 
to further congratulate Dr. Benjamin ``Benjie'' Santiago for over 27 
years of leadership in advancing the Hafa Adai spirit beyond Guam's 
shores by fostering the skills and passions of countless dancers 
through the Academy.
  Impassioned with a mission to cultivate greater cultural diversity in 
dance, Dr. Santiago founded Natibu in 1995. From a humble summer camp 
at the Barrigada Community Center to success on numerous international 
stages, the group that once consisted of only 21 students has grown 
into a thriving agent of CHamoru pride, learning, generosity, and 
excellence. Uniquely navigating a mix of CHamoru, Hawaiian, Tahitian, 
and Maori genres, Natibu is a visionary force in the world of 
traditional dance. Dr. Santiago's certifications by the late Uncle 
George Lanakilakeikiahiali'i Na'ope and Al Makahinu Barcarse as Kumu 
Hula in 1999 and 2002 respectively, further strengthen his ability to 
explore new opportunities for Natibu dancers to rise as champions of 
artistic discovery.
  The numerous recognitions Natibu has garnered throughout the years 
illustrate the distinction with which they represent Guam. In addition 
to earning the Governor's arts awards and Hafa Adai spirit award, the 
group has obtained several top placements in the local Guahan Asia Hula 
Festival and Dinanna' Minagof Chamorro Dance Competitions. With 
Honorary 1st and Overall Championship titles at Oahu festivals 
including the Keiki Hula Competition, King Kamehameha Hula Competition, 
Hula `Oni Festival, and the E Ho'i Mai I ka Piko Hula World 
Invitational, they also maintain a fine record of elevating Guam's 
presence among international communities. Moreover, they have 
tirelessly pursued greater connections with places as far as Taiwan, 
China, Japan, and the Philippines through various promotional 
collaborations with the Guam Visitors Bureau.
  On behalf of the People of Guam, I would like to extend a sincere 
congratulations to the Natibu Dance Academy for their many years of 
service to our island, region, and larger Pacific family. The 
traditions and stories they share through the art of cultural dance 
admirably empower our community, enrich others, and inspire many more 
to similarly honor the histories inscribed on our Pacific peoples. I 
further commend Dr. Benjamin ``Benjie'' Santiago for his dedication to 
developing novel connections between cultural revitalization, 
transpacific identity, and the gifts and talents of our youth. It is 
truly an honor to join both Natibu and Dr. Santiago as they celebrate 
nearly three decades of achievements and growth, and I look forward to 
seeing the next chapter of their journey as they continue to elevate 
CHamoru and Pacific voices.

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