Historical Trauma and CHamoru Self-Determination; The Lens of Famalåo’an CHamoru ginen Guåhan

This research study examines how CHamoru historical trauma can be remediated through CHamoru self-determination, with focus on the perspectives and worldviews of CHamoru women in Guåhan. Throughout 400 years of colonization by Spain, Japan, and the US, the CHamoru People have been resilient in violent experiences including genocide, dispossession, displacement, cultural decimation, and environmental destruction. In addition to exploring existing literature and data—and their connection to human rights mechanisms including self-determination, cultural rights, and land rights—this study incorporates interviews of nine CHamoru women counselors. Their insights lend perspective on CHamoru behavioral health, CHamorus' traditionally matrilineal and matrifocal society, and CHamoru women’s important roles in protecting and sustaining their families, communities, and culture