A community advocate in American Samoa is urging people to be more vigilant in the communities in order to weed out domestic violence.
Supporters line the road in downtown Fagatogo during a rally against domestic violence Photo: RNZ PACIFIC / Fili Sagapolutele
Dozens of people rallied in Pago Pago this week in support of the former wife of sacked cabinet member and former NFL star Jonathan Fanene, who faces 13 charges of assault.
Fanene is accused of holding his ex-wife against her will, and beating her and her sister with a pipe and stick.
The advocate, Ken Kuaea, says people are often suffering in silence, and people need to check on each other.
Mr Kuaea says he hopes that from this day people will go back to their homes and communities and provide the same support to those who are silent yet are suffering.
Jonathan Fanene has been fired by American Samoa's acting governor. He faces several charges of domestic assault. Photo: RNZ / Fili Sagapolutele