Top 10 Celebrities Embracing Chamorro Roots

1. Apl.de.ap – Born Allan Pineda Lindo Jr., Apl.de.ap is best known as a member of the Grammy Award-winning group, The Black Eyed Peas. He was born in Angeles City, Philippines, and is of Chamorro and Filipino descent. Apl.de.ap is recognized not only for his musical talents but also for his philanthropy, particularly in supporting education in the Philippines.

2. Pia Mia – Pia Mia Perez, known professionally as Pia Mia, is a singer, songwriter, and model. She gained popularity with her YouTube covers and later signed with Interscope Records. Born and raised in Guam, Pia Mia is of Chamorro, Italian, Hungarian, and Dutch descent. She has collaborated with artists such as Chris Brown, Tyga, and YG.

3. Benji and Joel Madden – The Madden brothers are best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist, respectively, of the pop-punk band Good Charlotte. Their father is of Chamorro and Irish descent, while their mother is of English and Jewish ancestry. The Madden brothers have had a successful music career and have also appeared as coaches on the reality TV show “The Voice Australia.”

4. A.J. Calvo – Alberto “A.J.” Calvo is a Chamorro actor and comedian from Guam. He has appeared in various movies and TV shows, such as “Fina’s Island,” “Only the Brave,” and “Living on Guam.” Calvo is known for his comedic talent and his ability to bring Chamorro culture to the screen.

5. Ben Salgado – Ben Salgado is a Chamorro musician and songwriter from Guam. He is known for his unique blend of reggae, rock, and Chamorro music. Salgado’s music often focuses on social issues, cultural identity, and love for his island home.

6. Ta’amu Kahoano – Ta’amu Kahoano is a Chamorro-American football player who played as a quarterback for the University of Hawaii and later in the NFL. He is of Chamorro and Hawaiian descent and has helped pave the way for other Pacific Islander athletes in football.

7. Pilar Laguaña – Pilar Lujan Laguaña is a Chamorro-American beauty queen from Guam. She was crowned Miss Universe Guam in 2019 and represented Guam at the Miss Universe pageant. Laguaña is an advocate for mental health awareness and women empowerment.

8. Frank “The Crank” Camacho – Frank Camacho is a Chamorro-American mixed martial artist competing in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). He proudly represents his Chamorro heritage and strives to inspire other Chamorro athletes.

9. Dr. Anita F. Borja Enriquez – Dr. Anita F. Borja Enriquez is a Chamorro educator, scholar, and activist. She is known for her work in preserving and promoting Chamorro language and culture. Dr. Enriquez has co-authored numerous publications on Chamorro language revitalization and is dedicated to fostering pride in Chamorro identity.

10. Robert Underwood – Robert Underwood is a Chamorro politician and academic from Guam. He served as the Delegate for Guam in the United States House of Representatives and as the President of the University of Guam. Underwood has made significant contributions to education, governance, and community development in Guam.

• Apl.de.ap
• Pia Mia
• Benji and Joel Madden
• A.J. Calvo
• Ben Salgado
• Ta’amu Kahoano
• Pilar Laguaña
• Frank “The Crank” Camacho
• Dr. Anita F. Borja Enriquez
• Robert Underwood

Chamorro’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Chamorro community, native to the beautiful islands of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, boasts a rich and captivating heritage. With a history dating back over 4,000 years, the Chamorro people have inherited a fascinating tapestry of traditions, customs, and values that continue to flourish today. From ancient rituals to cultural celebrations, the Chamorro community proudly preserves and celebrates their historical legacies. As we delve into the depths of this vibrant community, let’s explore three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Chamorro heritage.

1. Proa Navigation

One of the most impressive historical inheritances of the Chamorro community is their mastery of proa navigation. The proa is a type of indigenous canoe that has been used for centuries by the Chamorro people to navigate the vast Pacific Ocean. This ancient technique of sailing involves the use of triangular sails and unique navigational skills passed down through generations. The Chamorro’s expertise in proa navigation has not only shaped their seafaring culture but has also contributed to their impressive knowledge of wind and ocean currents.

• The Chamorro people have been using proas for transportation, fishing, and trade for thousands of years.
• Their knowledge of proa navigation allowed them to explore vast distances across the Pacific Ocean, connecting different islands and cultures.
• Today, proa racing is a popular sport in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, showcasing the continued celebration of this historical inheritance.

2. Ancient Artifacts

The Chamorro community is home to a wealth of ancient artifacts that provide insights into their rich history and cultural practices. From pottery and jewelry to ancient tools and weapons, these artifacts serve as tangible reminders of the Chamorro’s ancestral way of life. Discovering and preserving these ancient treasures is vital in understanding the customs and rituals of the Chamorro community.

• Ancient pottery showcases the Chamorro’s exceptional craftsmanship and artistic expression.
• Ancient tools and weapons shed light on the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the Chamorro people.
• Jewelry made from shells and coral reflect the Chamorro’s connection with the natural environment.

3. Traditional Festivals

The Chamorro community’s vibrant and lively traditional festivals are a testament to their enduring heritage. These colorful celebrations are often rooted in religious or cultural beliefs and are an excellent opportunity for the Chamorro people to gather and honor their past. Traditional dances, music, and food are central to these festivals, offering a glimpse into the Chamorro community’s cultural expression.

• Guam’s annual Liberation Day Festival commemorates the liberation of Guam during World War II and showcases the Chamorro community’s resilience and bravery.
• The Hafa Adai Festival in the Northern Mariana Islands celebrates the Chamorro culture with lively parades, traditional dances, and gastronomic delights.
• The Guam Micronesia Island Fair brings together various Micronesian cultures, including the Chamorros, to celebrate their shared heritage through music, dance, and crafts.

The Chamorro community’s historical inheritances offer a glimpse into their fascinating past and serve as a foundation for their modern identity. Whether it’s the art of proa navigation, the beauty of ancient artifacts, or the joy of traditional festivals, the Chamorro people continue to embrace and celebrate their heritage with pride.

Ethnic Factsheet: The Chamorro People

References to the Chamorro Ethnic Group

The Chamorro ethnic group refers to the indigenous people of the Mariana Islands, which include Guam and the United States Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. To learn more about the Chamorro ethnicity and their culture, history, and traditions, the following references and resources can be explored:

• Books:

  • “The Chamorro: A History and Ethnography of the Mariana Islands” by Dirk Ballendorf and Geraldine L. Vidal
  • “The Chamorros of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands: History of a People” by Don A. Farrell
  • “CultureShock! Guam: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette” by Thomas P. O’Toole

• Websites:

  • Guampedia – An online resource dedicated to all things related to Guam, including its Chamorro heritage, history, culture, and people.
  • Pacific Worlds – Offers a collection of online exhibits highlighting the Chamorro people and their cultural traditions.
  • Chamorro.info – Provides a wealth of information about Chamorro history, language, genealogy, and cultural resources.

• Museums and Cultural Centers:

  • Guam Museum – Located in Hagatna, Guam, this museum showcases the history, art, and culture of Guam and its people.
  • Taotao Tano’ Cultural Center – Situated in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, this cultural center offers exhibits, workshops, and educational programs focused on Chamorro culture.

By exploring these references and resources, individuals can delve deeper into the Chamorro ethnic group, gaining a greater understanding and appreciation for their rich heritage and contributions to the Mariana Islands.

Explore other famous people with Abazins, Balti and Chamalals roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Exploring notable figures from diverse ethnic backgrounds related to these Chamorro roots provides insight into the interconnectedness of global cultures and their contributions to the world.