New Island Video

The New Island Video was over the Marshall Island population here in Arkansas. Many people reside in Springdale, AR.

-The Marshall Islands are over a thousand of small islands grouped together in the Pacific Ocean.

-Her children born in AR, and she tells them stories about living in the islands.

-A lot work with the Tyson chicken company in the factories. The job doesn't require the ability to speak english. Of the 240 working in that day, 70% were mashallese.

-The women also work shifts at Tyson Foods.

-Over the years the Marshallese population has been increasing dramatically.

-Diabetes is much more common among them compared to the american population (3-4x more common among the marshallese), and it's becoming a common issue with them. Possibly because of radiation exposure or nuclear testing that occurred in the islands.

-for the teenagers, some have began their education in the islands and are finishing it in AR, so it can be a difficult transition. Many group together at lunch.

-the parents take a stance that they are very focused on coming here to give their children a good education. Generally they will get involved in activities and come to events and they are very proud of their children.

-It's a struggle for them to learn english

-basketball, volleyball and softball competitions among them

-worried because only a few go on to college after high school, because it is easier to get a job instead of going back to school.

-many do work very hard in school, some are able to get scholarships. Many come here with almost nothing.