Pacific Talk: Podcast, Self-Advocate Series, Episode 6 - A Conversation with AS OPAD

In this episode of Pacific Talk: Podcast – Self-Advocate Series, self-advocate hosts Alofaeleuma Faualo and Ernie Seevaetasi of the American Samoa Center for Independent Living sit down with Serita Peretania and Fausaga Veavea from the American Samoa Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities (OPAD). Together, they explore the importance of self-advocacy, disability rights, accessibility, and inclusion. The conversation highlights how individuals with disabilities can better understand and exercise their rights, the role OPAD plays in protecting and advocating for those rights, and how partnerships across the community help create a more inclusive American Samoa. This episode also reflects on the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities are not only represented but empowered to lead conversations that shape policies, services, and their own futures.