Denita K. Yangetmai
THE Uraali Refaluwasch Association supports House Resolution 24-11, which urges the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to consider indigenous traditional knowledge in Mariana Trench research.
Rep. Denita K. Yangetmai introduced H.R. 24-11 during the House session on Monday. The resolution respectfully asks NOAA to “ensure meaningful and equitable involvement of Northern Marianas Descent persons, and recognition of NMD traditional knowledge, stewards, and proprietary rights in all current and future activities related to ocean exploration, marine research, data ownership, and commercialization of marine resources in the Mariana Trench and surrounding waters.”
Uraali President Carmelita “Millie” Rabauliman-Faisao, on behalf of the organization, expressed full and unwavering support for H.R. 24-11.
She said the resolution is a meaningful affirmation of the rights of indigenous peoples to shape the policies and scientific agendas that directly impact their ancestral lands and ocean spaces.
“Our communities have maintained a sacred, enduring relationship with the ocean — a relationship rooted in generations of navigation, conservation, and cultural practice. The integration of indigenous knowledge systems with contemporary science is not only just but essential for ethical and effective stewardship of these marine environments,” Rabauliman-Faisao said.
She also expressed appreciation for the Legislature’s acknowledgment of Uraali’s position on the matter, echoing its call for inclusive frameworks that provide NMD communities with direct access to data, co-development of research protocols, and fair participation in any resulting economic or scientific benefits.
As leaders of Uraali, she said, she and her fellow officers of the organization “reaffirm our commitment to advancing collaborative dialogue with NOAA, the CNMI government, and other stakeholders. We stand ready to assist in co-creating a future where Indigenous voices guide marine conservation, innovation, and governance.”
