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Rongelap Culture |
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 The Marshallese are
known as one of the friendliest and most peaceful cultures on
earth. Their traditional greeting of Yokwe yuk translates to
"Love to You." The National Motto is "Jepelpelin ke
Ejukaan" referring to the vast ocean distances separating the
islands of the country. The islanders are known for their ability
to navigate great spans of ocean over a 750,000 square mile area.
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There are two major dialects of the
Marshallese language, correlating to the two chains of atolls: Ralik
and Ratak. However, the difference between the two dialects is
minor and Marshallese is considered homogeneous. Studies suggest
that Marshallese is most closely related to the languages of
Pohnpei, Kosrai, and Kiribati. |
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 The people of Rongelap have been
living away from their homeland for many years. As they
return, they bring with them the traditional culture from Rongelap
as well as the customs and crafts of the Marshall Islands. With
their return, they will be able to share the knowledge of their
islands through development of Eco-tourism.
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English is the official language of
Rongelap and the Marshall Islands.
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The long
distances between islands and the low elevation of the land
presented a challenge for early Marshall Islanders. The
wave formations provided the clue to the direction of the
next island. This information was passed on through "stick
charts" constructed with thin strips of pandanus wood and
cowry shells to show ocean patterns and islands or atolls. |
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The Marshallese are known
throughout the world for their unique knowledge of fishing
techniques and styles. Their expertise in building canoes
that could travel long distances combined with their
exceptional navigational skills have amazed people around
the world.
The Marshall Islands elders
explanation of complex navigational concepts were passed
down through generations along with the verbal history of
the islands.
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 Rongelap
Island been uninhabited for many years. The resettlement of
the islanders is a major project geared toward helping them
preserve their livelihood while continuing to protect their
environment. |
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