American Samoa Photo: RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton
The deeper importance of indigenous guardianship was at the forefront of a forum hosted by non-profit organisation, Nia Tero in Hawaii.
Discussions revolved around the value of better understanding cultural identities and how this can contribute to revitalizing cultural practices region wide.
Pacific strategy advisor Paul Roughan has noticed a dilution of cultural practices over the years and says the time to act is now.
RNZ Pacific's Tiana Haxton spoke with Mr Roughan.
