The M/V Erroll brought 200 baskets of taro, yams and chestnuts from Gagil, Yap, for Ulithi’s typhoon relief.

What happened

The gift reflected the traditional sawei tie, in which Ulithi owed tribute to chiefs in Gagil and Yap, as “parent,” had obligations to its “child.” Gagil’s elders met at Gatchapar and decided to send the food. Lessa argues that the storm gave the old relationship a new form rather than weakening it.

Why it matters

It shows Yapese customary obligations still at work under US rule.