Keywords
Polynesian writers, indigenous literature, Polynesian students, cultural book displays
Submission Type
Research
Preview
Polynesians (also referred to as Pacific Islanders) are the smallest minority group in the United States, making up .02% of the population. They tend, however to live in concentrated communities, near other Polynesians. The result is that in our schools we either have no Polynesians or an atypical concentration. 2010 census data shows that six of the top twenty cities with the highest Pacific Islander population are in Utah. Provo and Orem have around 20 times the national average, West Jordan 30 times the national average, Taylorsville 40 times the national average and Salt Lake 50 times the national average. West Valley scores first in the nation with 95 times the national average of Polynesians as a percentage of the population—the highest concentration of Pacific Islanders outside of Polynesia. This student population deserves the courtesy and service of having available literature that focuses on the indigenous cultures of the islands.
Recommended Citation
Neves, Victor
(2013)
"Where Are the Books for Polynesians? An Exploration of Interests, Needs, and Available Resources,"
The Utah English Journal: Vol. 41, Article 6.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/uej/vol41/iss1/6