The disproportionately high representation of Guam’s local Indigenous people, primarily the CHamoru, within the homeless population can be attributed to a combination of historical, systemic, economic, and social factors:

1. Historical Displacement and Colonial Legacy

• Guam’s history of colonization by Spain, the United States, and Japan has had long-lasting effects on the CHamoru people. Land dispossession, cultural marginalization, and the introduction of Western systems disrupted traditional societal structures and access to resources.

• Significant portions of CHamoru land were seized for military use, leaving many families without their ancestral homes or land for farming and economic stability.

2. Economic Disparities

• Indigenous CHamorus often face higher unemployment rates, lower wages, and limited access to high-paying jobs compared to other groups, particularly those who migrate to Guam from more developed countries.

• The rising cost of living, particularly housing, in Guam places a disproportionate burden on economically vulnerable populations.

3. Generational Poverty

• Many CHamoru families have been trapped in cycles of generational poverty, making it difficult for individuals to break out of economic hardship. Limited access to higher education and job training further compounds this issue.

4. Health Disparities

• CHamorus have higher rates of chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), which can lead to financial strain due to healthcare costs. Poor health can also make it difficult to maintain steady employment, increasing the risk of homelessness.

5. Social and Cultural Factors

• The CHamoru cultural value of extended family support often leads to overcrowded housing situations. When family resources are stretched thin, some individuals may find themselves without a stable home.

• Substance abuse, mental health challenges, and other social issues disproportionately affect economically disadvantaged groups, including CHamorus, due to limited access to mental health services on Guam.

6. Policy Gaps and Resource Allocation

• While government programs exist to address homelessness, they are often underfunded, and the resources available are insufficient to meet the needs of the population.

• U.S. federal policies governing Guam often leave gaps in funding for social programs, further exacerbating inequality.

Broader Context

While CHamorus are the majority ethnic group on Guam, systemic issues like poverty and homelessness often disproportionately impact Indigenous populations in colonized territories worldwide. Addressing these issues requires a mix of policy changes, investment in education and healthcare, cultural preservation efforts, and economic opportunities tailored to the CHamoru community’s unique needs.