My name is Allia Alliata. And the images above are of my grandfather’s home in Rome and of me in Hawaii - pictures of both of my roots. I’ve lived in the US since I was six months old and have lived on Oahu since I was six. Having spent most of my life in Hawaii, it is where I call home. Although I was raised in the US, I was born in Italy and raised by Italian parents. Therefore, I feel an imperishable and inherent attachment to my Italian roots. My heritage is something that will remain close to me no matter where I have traveled or lived.

Living and traveling back and forth between two entirely different cultures, I have developed a strong appreciation and understanding of not only Hawaiian and Italian culture, but of varied cultures from around the world. Hawaii’s warm and generous spirit juxtaposed with Italy’s  rich history and family traditions have truly shaped who I am as a person, my interests and decisions.  

My name is Madeline Sumida. This is a photo of me with some examples of my family’s art collection. The ink brush painting is an heirloom from Japan. I’m holding an ashtray that my great grandfather made in the Fort Missoula internment camp during World War II; though intended for a most mundane function, the molded concrete and meticulously polished stones of the work clearly demonstrate the artist’s aesthetic. The painting behind is one of my own, inspired in part by the family artwork I grew up admiring.

My name is Emily Vallerga, and as I’m sure you have guessed, I am not of Asian heritage. With a name like Vallerga you probably think Spanish, but in reality I am of Italian heritage. Because I have such a deep affinity for my personal heritage, I have profound respect for those who also cherish their heritage. Therfore, I am ecstactic to be working with and learning from the Asian Pacific American Program. Not to mention, I have discovered a deep love for Indian food.  The curries,spices, and colors of which have inspired me to broaden my taste buds, expand my spice cupboard, and covet Indian cook books.  Speaking of food, this is a photo of my Nona and me cooking Ravioli for a family meal.

My name is Marie Antonette Ramos. This is a photo of me at tattoo shop located in Waipahu, Hawaii (the city where I grew up in after migrating from Baguio, Philippines with my family). I had “Amin ay ipugao wada di istorya na” tatted on my inner forearm, which means “Everybody has a story”. It’s in my mom’s native tongue –Kankanaey. As a Filipino American poet, I wear it proudly to remind myself and others that our stories DO matter. On that note, I am very honored and humbled to be an intern at the Asian Pacific American Program this Fall.

My name is Aaron Sayama.

My name is Josie Suh.