Micronesia Culture and Traditions
Customs and traditions
The living patterns of Micronesian village communities are usually traditional, conservative and characterized by the Christian faith of the residents. But customs and customs differ between the different states and the residents are usually more identified with the island they live on than with the Micronesia Federation as a nation.
“Unity in diversity” and “our differences enrich us” are common expressions to strengthen national identity.
- Countryaah: Overview of the capital city of Micronesia, including information about its population, economy, geography, history and map.
According to Abbreviationfinder, Nowadays many micronesia live in relatively modern houses in village communities. In the center of the villages there is usually a church and a meeting and assembly house. Social life is still clearly socially stratified, with some large families having much higher status than the others. These families are over-represented in the governments and parliaments of the country and the states.
It is still common for several generations to live together in a household, but more and more people are now choosing to live in nuclear families.
Micronesian etiquette rules are used, among other things, to show respect for people of high status, such as political and religious leaders or older relatives. Women traditionally show respect for their spouses by serving them food first or walking a few steps behind them out among people.
Usually with strict upholstery
It is not appropriate to show strong feelings in public and men and women should not be kissed or hugged so that others see it. However, it is not uncommon for girlfriends to go hand in hand.
The clothing style outside the cities and tourist areas is quite strict and women should cover their shoulders and knees. This also applies to foreign visitors.
Inviting and accepting food are important expressions of hospitality and loyalty between friends and relatives. The staple foods are taro (root cane), breadfruit, jams (roots), sweet potato, cassava and fruits (coconuts, bananas, mangoes, papaya and various kinds of citrus fruits) and fish. The sea offers about 100 edible fish species, as well as turtles, seafood and mussels. Pigs and chickens are raised and slaughtered on more festive occasions.
In recent decades, traditional food has been increasingly replaced by imported semi-manufactured products such as canned fish, dried rice, bread, pancakes and noodles. This carbohydrate-rich diet signals high status and a modern liver, but has also led to major problems with overweight and obesity.
Status with plenty of food
Both Christian and secular celebrations and holidays are celebrated with plenty of food – the more well-ordered a family the more food. The table location usually indicates the individual’s status and high-ranking family members are often served first. In addition to the usual Christian feasts, harvest celebrations are also celebrated.
Micronesia generally marries the person of their choice, but social status, property and family affiliation are nevertheless weighed into the marriage case. The wedding is celebrated with food and gifts. Divorce is allowed but unusual if the couple has children. Funerals are major events, but the performance differs from archipelago to archipelago. It is not uncommon for funeral rites to last for several days and in some places the grieving period lasts for several months for the immediate family members.
According to Countryaah, national holidays are New Year’s Day, Good Friday (in Pohnpei only), Micronesian Culture and Tradition Day (March 30), Constitution Day (May 10), UN Day (October 24), Independence Day (November 2), War Veterans Day (November 12), Thanksgiving Day (only in Chuuk, November 28) and Christmas Day. In addition to these, the four states have their own special holidays.
