Dr. Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard, a distinguished American Samoan poet and retired professor from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, was tragically murdered last Saturday in Apia, Samoa.
She was found deceased at the Galu Moana Theatre in Vaivase-Uta, leading to the arrest of fellow poet and playwright Papalii Sia Figiel, who was initially charged with manslaughter before the charge was upgraded to murder.
Dr. Sinavaiana-Gabbard, aged 78, was celebrated not only for her contributions to literature as a poet and academic but also for her environmental advocacy and historical research.
The literary community and friends are in shock, expressing profound grief and paying tributes to Sinavaiana-Gabbard, who was regarded as a peaceful, private individual with a monumental impact on the literary scene.
Described as a kindred spirit and a brilliant writer, her death has sparked an outpouring of condolences and remembrances across social media. Born in 1946, Sinavaiana-Gabbard was a pivotal figure in Pacific literature and had warned about environmental issues such as the dangers of paraquat in Samoa. Her extensive career included teaching creative writing and publishing influential works like “Alchemies of Distance,” contributing significantly to both academic and literary fields.
Sinavaiana-Gabbard was the aunt of US politician and potential Trump running-mate Tulsi Gabbard.
I hadn’t heard about this. Thanks for making us aware Daily Telegraph. What an utter tragedy. I am quite familiar with Tulsi Gabbard whom I admire greatly who is also a highly intelligent dignified woman. Must run in the family.
What the hell is happening in the world? Who is this mad woman who has taken an innocent life?
RIP Caroline.
More on the story here;
https://100percentfedup.com/family-member-tulsi-gabbard-murdered/