As the first Samoan to attain full professorship in the United States, she had a big influence on Pacific literature and academia.
Figiel is an award-winning poet, playwright and novelist. Her work is published in New Zealand and distributed throughout the South Pacific region.
Tulsi Gabbard Connection
Sinaviana-Gabbard’s niece, Tulsi Gabbard served four terms as a Democrat in Hawaii’s second district. She was the first Samoa-American to become a voting member of Congress.
She was a presidential candidate in 2020 and left the Democratic Party in 2022 to become an Independent.
Sinaviana-Gabbard’s brother was Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard who is Tulsi Gabbard’s father.
Mike Gabbard said he forgives the person responsible for his sister’s death. And hopes justice will be served and the killer “will be punished to the full extent of the law.”
Charges Upgraded
Figiel was originally charged with manslaughter on Sunday. On Monday the police upgraded the charge to murder.
After a preliminary investigation Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo said incriminating evidence was found.
