While visiting Springdale, Arkansas last week, President Heine delivered the keynote remarks at the Marshallese Women’s Conference organized by the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese. The Office of the President summarized her remarks in a press release posted on Facebook which emphasized the strength and resilience of Marshallese women, drawing on cultural proverbs and historical narratives to highlight their vital contributions. She underscored the importance of maintaining cultural identity and traditions, even as Marshallese communities continue to grow abroad. “If we maintain the belief of Kora ‘em Ajra, the voices of our women will remain strong and resolute in fostering stability and harmony,” she said. She encouraged women to take charge of their future and pursue academic and vocational opportunities, recognizing that knowledge and skills are powerful tools for economic stability and cultural preservation. She encouraged those living in the United States to remain connected to their roots, passing down traditions and values to the next generation.

Riit ilo Kajin Majōl: H.E. President Heine’s Keynote Remarks at the 2025 Women’s Conference in Arkansas (Kajin Majōl)

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Keynote Remarks for H.E. President Hilda C. Heine

Women’s Conference in Arkansas

Women of the Past, Present, and Future – “Kora ‘em Ajra”

March 19, 2025

A very warm greeting of Iakwe to each one of you. I wish to acknowledge and give praise to our Heavenly Father, first and foremost. I would also like to pay my respect to our traditional leaders, those who have joined us this morning, those back home in the Marshall Islands, or wherever they may be. I wish to acknowledge our spiritual leaders and their spouses from all our respective churches. I would also like to recognize our community leaders who have contributed some much of their time and energy to our community here in Arkansas. A special recognition to all the ladies that helped put together this wonderful event. It is my distinct honor to join you today as your Keynote Speaker at this auspicious gathering for Marshallese women of Arkansas and our partners.

I wish to take this opportunity to recognize Mayor Doug Sprouse. Thank you so very much, Mr. Mayor, for all that you do for our Marshallese community here in Northwest Arkansas, throughout the State of Arkansas, and the United States.

I also wish to recognize Amy Pritchard. Thank you, Amy, for your care, for your energy, and for the many wonderful things you bring to uplift the lives of our Marshallese community, especially Marshallese women and girls.

May I also take this opportunity to recognize Melisa Laelan-Pedro for her sustained effort and determination to making life better for the Marshallese community here in Arkansas. Thank you, Melisa, for your selfless act of exemplary service to our diaspora community.

It is a privilege to deliver the keynote remarks as we reflect on today’s theme – Kora ‘em Ajra.

What does Kora ‘em Ajra mean? In truth, this proverb is often used, but its’ meaning is not always fully understood. Truth be told, I had to seek advice from recognized Marshallese tradtional experts on the proper use of the proverb.

Based on what I’ve learned from these cultural experts, Kora ‘em Ajra is the final thunderclap that gives the powerful sound marking the end of a storm. It symbolizes the intensity of tranquility that brings silence to all external disruption.

I must say this conference is being held at a crucial time as you seek to continue your work to make life better and safe for our diaspora communities in the United States given what is taking place within the US federal government.

As a small nation we are often viewed as vulnerable peoples, however, if we look to our past, our history teaches us that we are a resilient people. We have a rich cultural heritage and a value system that promotes tolerance and respect for one another, especially our women. Our legend of Timur and Jebro and the canoe race between twelve bothers, and how the youngest, Jebro, won the race because he had listened to his mother, Liktanur, exemplifies deep respect for our mothers, our women.

In exercising your right to migrate to your new home, whether for education, health, or job opportunities, I am proud to see that you have remain connected to the Marshall Islands. Despite the distance, you recognize the importance of maintaining your Marshallese culture, identity and traditions within our diaspora community. This is what it means when we say “Bedbed ijin, bedbed ijen”. This proverb speaks to the idea that no matter where you are, you have a responsibility to that community, whether it is here in Arkansas or in the Marshall Islands.

We now have generations of Marshallese who were born and raised in the United States. I suppose the question now is how do we teach these new generations about what it is to be Marshallese, our culture and traditions.

It is my belief that Marshallese women play a pivotal role in maintaining cultural practices, language, and values in a new environment. If we maintain the belief of “Kora em Ajra”, the voices of our women will remain strong and resolute in fostering stability and harmony. Let’s not forget this cultural role that we’ve inherited from our forefathers.

From the moment she is born, she assumes the title of Iep Jeltok, and becomes an expected mother to her clan or Bwij. She will carry the important responsibility of bringing life, nurturing and protecting that life, and guiding it in the right direction. She is Jined ilo koboand Jined Kiped.

She must be resourceful and creative to provide for her family, a Kora em an Kol and a Kora Menunaak. She also carries the responsibility to maintain peace within her family and the community—Lejmaanjuri, Kora in Eoeo, Kora em Ajra.

In order for her to do this, however, her health, EJMOUR is vital. Ej represents the act of weaving, and mour stands for health. Together, Ejmoursymbolizes the intricate connection between health and life itself, as she must weave good health into every aspect of her existence to fulfill her responsibilities and nurture her family and community.

To empower our women to fulfill these essential roles, we launched the Health Campaign Ao Ejmour Ao Eddo(My Health, My Responsibility) back home.

It is without question that the health and wellbeing of our people remain an ongoing challenge, shaped by our historical experiences and modern lifestyles. Marshallese communities face some of the highest rates of health complications, particularly non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The nuclear legacy has left a lasting and devastating impact on our people and our land, with severe consequences for women’s health—ranging from miscarriages and birth complications to cancers passed from one generation to the next.

However, beyond the physical toll, these challenges also take a deep psychological and emotional toll on individuals, families, and entire communities.

I know that addressing these health issues is not easy and requires a holistic approach—one that acknowledges the critical role of mental health alongside physical health.

In saying all of this, I want to recognize the invaluable work being done in partnership with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). The Family Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) Program has empowered Marshallese individuals to take control of their health and reduce the impact of diabetes in our communities.

Additionally, through the collaboration between the Ministry of Health & Human Services (MoHHS) and the Marshallese Educational Initiative, Inc. (MEI), we have taken significant steps to bridge health equity gaps. The establishment of the Newborn Screening System (NBS) in the Marshall Islands will provide early detection and intervention for heritable conditions, ensuring that Marshallese children—both in the RMI and in the U.S.—have a strong foundation for lifelong health. But health is not just about the body; it is about the mind, the heart, and the spirit. A child’s future is not only shaped by their physical health but also by the emotional and psychological well-being of their caregivers and community.

Mental health is often overlooked, yet it is deeply intertwined with every aspect of our well-being. For Marshallese women, the need for mental health awareness and resources is critical. Many faceoverwhelming stressors, including displacement, economic hardships, and the lasting trauma of violence. Violence against women and girls is not just an individual tragedy—it is a public health crisis, one that shatters families and leaves lasting scars on entire communities. It remains underreported and, too often, justified, as if women and girls do not have rights, dignity, or the right to live free from fear.

Globally, one in three women will experience some form of violence in their lifetime, but in the Pacific region, the rates are even higher, making it one of the most affected areas in the world. In the Marshall Islands, more than 50% of women have endured abuse at some point in their lives. This is not just a statistic—it’s a painful reality for many families across our nation.

When I hear about such violence against women and girls, I am baffled and often wonder to myself – Whatever happened to our Marshallese proverbs for women? When our mothers are no longer with us, there is a saying that goes “ejerata eo ejelok jinen”, “those without their mother are unfortunate” because women are essential to the social fabric of their families and their community. Another one is “Ekakwikwi jinenemmaan”, meaning when women face abuse, violence or attacked, the men of her clan come to her defense. In this case, when she is abused, let’s say by her partner, the men of her clan come to her rescue, and her partner can be banished or dealt with by the clan. Perhaps it’s time for us, as mothers, to re-instill these values and beliefs with our own sons so that they may understand their role as well.

Undoubtedly, our traditional values and practices have continued to erode over time. It is important that we maintain our culture not only in the Marshall Islands, but also beyond our shores, wherever our Marshallese communities live.

I’m a firm believer that education plays an important role in empowering Marshallese women and girls to overcome many obstacles. This is a proven fact. And so I take this opportunity to encourage all of our women to grab the educational opportunities that are out there to secure a better future for our kids, especially our girls.

I understand there are many barriers in accessing and affording education including language, financial burdens and cultural expectations. However, as someone who grew up during the Trust Territory times with limited options for education, I can tell you there are many educational opportunities that are out there and available today. I say this because it is important to note that academics are not the only way to succeed educationally. Vocational and technical schools are also educational paths that are vital to society. In reality, noteveryone thrives in a traditional college setting. Some may have specific, marketable skills and capabilities for real-world demands such as sewing, cooking/baking, arts and crafts, and other trades.

Spend time to make your own assessments. Where your interest lies is where you should steer for it’s your passion and dedication that will allow you to excel to be able to sustain yourself, your family, and help those around you. Once you’ve identified your strengths and values and set your path and goals accordingly with determination and resolve, I promise you will be able to overcome obstacles that come your way.

All women must take charge and be ready (Maanjappopo) to chart our own course for a better future for our families whether it is here or back home in the Marshall Islands. Education is key to preparing oneself for an uncertain future; it is an investment with greater and enduring value beyond just economics. Encourage our children to attend school and the importance of discipline and determination. Teach them to persist through setbacks and believe in their ability to improve through effort. All accomplishments, whether academic, professional, or personal, are earned, not given.

Your RMI Government avails itself to support you and help where possible to ensure your needs can be addressed as we Wodde Jippel and work together to overcome the obstacles that our communities here face,while ensuring our children understand our cultural values and expectations as Marshallese. As such, it is imperative that the connections between here and back home remain intact and strong.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month, I want to recognize the women who organized and contributed a great deal for this meeting to happen, and for all our participants for gracing us with your presence. Conferences such as this can empower Marshallese women to continue to thrive, support one another, and drive positive change within your communities. For I know first hand that it does, given my experiences over the years with women’s conferences in the Marshall Islands organized and hosted by WUTMI, Women United Together Marshall Islands, since its inception until today. Once again, it was an honor to be here.

I wish you all a successful conference. May God bless you and your families.

Thank you very much.