Samoan Gang Life in LA (Compton Projects) 🇺🇸
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Today we meet up with some old-school Samoans who did many hard years in gangs and prisons. Their crimes were horrendous but they've decided to change their lives and move forward on a mission to keep the youth out of the gangs that they helped form. Join me for an eye-opening, heart wrenching, and inspirational journey.
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“I’m not a product of my environment, I’m a product of my decisions” 🎯🎯 facts
Absolutely true and correct beautiful woman 🌹💐💝🌹
One thing. Fact, not facts.
💯
The fact is, and psychology proven, it's a mix of both.
Action speak louder than words. Been saying the same thing for a long time.
We were old white folks struggling to carry heavy furniture into our house. A car full of young Samoans stopped and carried the stuff in for us, really impressed us, indicated respect for elders and a desire to do good.
Samoan love at its finest,thanks for sharing that Gary 🙏🏾🙏🏾💙
Always. Sometimes old people get skeptical or intimidated when I ask them if they need help but it's our nature. We serve, especially the elders
That's their culture. To take care of each other, especially kids and elders.
impressed you? yall are something else.
YUP IM A MEXICAN FROM SD. S/O TO MY UCES. FROM NATIONAL CITY. BIG UNCLE RAPPY BIG MIKE, TANK. BUT THE OG MAMA. I EARNED THEIR RESPECTS WHEN I WALKED MAMA UCE BACK TO HER CHURCH BLOCKS AWAY WITH HER GROCERIES AND WHEN I GOT THERE A GANG OF UCES WERE RIGHT THERE AND SHE TRIED TO OFFER ME $1 AND NOPE WONT EXCEPT THAT MAM. AND I ENDED UP CHILLING THERE FOR LIKE 2 HRS MEANWHILE MY CAR WAS STILL AT THE STORE😂😂😂 BUT EVER SINCE THEN ITS FAMILY💯 ( RESPECT ) ALWAYS🫡 HAPPY LIFE PPL STAY UP🙏🏾 LOL I GOT THE BIGGEST HUG FROM ONE OF THOSE HOMIES THAT HE LIFTED ME OFF MY FEET AND IM 6’4 230 BACK THEN BUT WTF YOU GON DO🤷🏾♂️😂
30 years ago you took my dads life, it took me a long time of hate,anger,and alot more feeling of what i wanted to do to you but seeig this video over and over i watched this more than 40 times i watched your face over and over and just to try and forgive you is more than i can do , to hear your words and the flowers you placed where my dad died is straight up respect, but i only wished that night you could relive that night and somehow got to know my dad it would have been a life changer for you but we have to move on and accept the past and to change that time in history, just wanted to share this to you cause i never met you but one day uso i will be face to face to you then you will see my face of my dad again cause i look like him, but for now all i can say is repect of what ur doing ...... hate is not what we make,change is better than chains, rebuild what is broken...
Wow, props for being able to talk about growing and moving but never forgetting
There’s no words to describe the emotions that is flowing through me at this moment. I guess humility would be my best attempt. I am humble by your comment. I’m not sure what should I say or should I say anything at all? I always wondered if you and I would ever cross paths or come in contact with each other. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about the irreparable harm and damage that I caused to you and your family (especially your Dad). I met your sisters and their spouses during all the Parole Board hearings. It was their testimonies and stories about your Dad that made me truly understand the magnitude of pain and suffering that I brought into y’all lives. “Once an offender fully understands the magnitude of their offense, that offender is unlikely to re-offend!” I made a promise to your family on the day the Parole Board approved my release, that I would be willing to sit down with you and your family in the name of healing for your family, unless my presence would cause further harm! My mind is racing right now. Pls excuse me if I’m speaking out of turn. I will continue to share my story in hopes that it will resonate with the youth of how not to live their lives. It’s a story of brokenness meant to heal the broken. Peace and respect to you for humbling me with your comment. “Product of your Environment VS Product of your Decisions.” -FOU Movement In Jesus name l pray… Amen
Much respect, love, peace and blessings. Thank you for sharing. This could not have been easy. Your growth is admirable.
In Sicily there is a thing, "La sangua lava la sangua", translates to "Blood washes blood". It sounds crazy because it is. This is what it means, Sicilia, is the home of The Vendetta. If someone harms you in any way, causes dishonor to your name, or anyone in your family, you MUST enact vengeance on the offender. It is ingrained in everyone, there is no other option. So, if somebody kills a member of your family, no matter who, or what you are, you must kill that person. And you must kill every last male member of his family, their age doesn't save them, no matter how old, or how young. (I told you it was crazy). There are stories of men who were even Priests that carried out these vendettas, So both families would go to war. There are only two things that could end this chaos. One, would be that, one family wins by killing all the men in the other family. The only other option, is, if a man from one of the families was to marry a woman from the opposing family, then all is forgiven and whoever is still alive from both families, they come together and celebrate the union of the families. And they really do this, it is mind boggling! One day you are trying to kill the man who may have killed your brother, and your uncles, and maybe even your father, the next day, you and that very same man are now family, and all is forgiven, and forgotten, because "blood washes blood" after all. I tell you this because it really happens, these families will bond together in a very strong way. Christ has already forgiven you. I know that God forgives all, He chose Moses(a murderer), He chose David, (who stole the wife of Uriah, and sent him to his death) A good wife, is a gift from God, a sign that you are forgiven. Perhaps this brave young lady, and her family will do the same. I pray that they do. The Angel of The Lord said to Gideon, "Hail thy mighty man valor! The Lord is with Thee, Go in this thy honor, and save thy people!" Christ our Lord said, "Who are my Brothers? but those that do My Father's will". Your story has touched my soul, I am better for knowing you, and your wife's story. You are not alone, and I am grateful that you have the courage to share your story. May god our Father continue to Bless you abundantly. Thank you again! @@upuama7862
It takes a powerful person to forgive its highest point love much love and respect to you and peace you have something most people don't have ..
"I use to think I was a product of my environment, but today I understand I am a product of my decisions" -True wisdom
I think you make decisions based on your environment
More so a product of the evil world order..
I'm Samoan and when I seen this video pop up I said to myself "great another documentary, for our young poly's to glorify the gang life" but it was completely different from what I expected. Watching this absolutely blessed my heart, seeing my polynesian brothers use this opportunity to spread positivity instead of trying to act gangster. They kept it real and told you that this life comes with consequences. I lost my big brother to the street life and I don't want to see anymore more of my uso's lose it all over stupid decisions. Thank Upu & Pineapple and also Peter for using your outlet to do what the media will never do for us broadcast a message that will benefit our people.
Props to you 👏 that's right thanks for your authentic truth that's real power what you just stated is true power. Something violence nor gangs could ever provide. God bless you
It's good to see them embracing Christ and forgiveness of sins through his blood sacrifice! Jesus said, _"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Therefore I tell you, _*_every sin_*_ and blasphemy _*_will be forgiven_*_ people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven."_ *MATTHEW 12:30-31*
@mbgrafix Amen it is only through JESUS CHRIST
@@zy823 Indeed!
@@zy823 amen brother
Peter needs to be commended for his work. All of his works needs to be saved by the Library of Congress for use by future generations. He is an asset to American history, culture, and sociology.
Seriously!
Could not agree more.
Agree
He is a great asset for giving us more understanding of people and communities that few has insights too, which brings us closer as humanity...which is much needed. Peter is better than all the news channels that is peddling fear, anger and division.
His views are wrong about Ukraine 💯
I was raised by Samoans because my mom was running around and I was raised by my grandma and my aunt, who married a samoan man who became my uncle and raised me as his own. I learned a lot growing up with Samoans. First Respect for my elders at ALL TIMES , 2nd, They made sure I prayed and built a relationship with God, Also to Protect my sister, and cousins. I was always the little white boy but they treated me as THIER own. I was hard headed so they called me (PO PO) that means hard head.alot of my uncle's used to be either bloods or from SOS but when I was young they gave THIER lives to God. I am incredibly blessed to have been raised by my ant and uncle as well as a whole lotta ants uncle's and countless cousins. We learned to fight together, we learned to play ball together we learned to be leaders and not followers. Although I was never as big or strong as my cousins I became as tough and I also became Humble, and showed respect to anyone older NO MATTER WHAT. and Samoans have THE BEST FOO. The cookouts and barbecues we're the best memories of family fellowship and good food. I will hold my childhood close. Ps. You can Always tell a Samoan boy by their Total respect for adults. They may seem big and intimidating but they are the Softest, Biggest lovers when it comes to the parents and family. I can never relate with other Caucasian kids who scream and disrespect THIER parents because THAT WAS NEVER TOLERATED In a Samoan household. Shoes off "no fea lalo, fa'at molay molay. And Lay yai. I know my spelling is off but those are things I regularly heard growing up as well as saulay,. Beautiful, people with a unique culture. And strong family values. God bless my family . (POUMELE)- SAN DIEGO CA.
Amazing story uso! God bless you and your family!
I grew up in American Samoa. Half white half Korea kid that moved their from Hawaii cuz my dad was a sea law enforcement agent thing . During high school I ran away from home and lived at a friends house fkr close to a year. During that time I learned a lot as well. Like you said always respect your elders. And you dk all the feaus(chores) when told. They were the boss and if you didn't listen you could get your ass beat. The have the utmost respect and love for their family. Cousins and aunties live together regularly. We'd have prayers at school, prayers at 6pm at home, mass on Sunday. We'd hang out on the streets drinking vailimas and smoking kools. If you go too far with skmethjng, you might have to fight about it, then you might have to fight their squad too. Hopefully you gotta squad. If you faaumu outta nowhere, that can be taken as you're calling for backup, shits bout to go down. I miss some bomb oka. I miss sitting by the waves crashing at Maliu mai. Miss taking a bus for a quarter. Miss meeting my friends to sing songs on the ukulele, alot kr Samoans are great singers. Simpler times. I miss it
❤❤
Love this beautiful upbringing you had wit Samoans..since you our apart of the Samoan family 🙏🏻
Malo uce, fa'afetai ma alofa atu❤️💯
It's refreshing to hear people be absolutely brutally honest about their part in destroying their own lives and laying bad foundations for a whole community. No excuses, just ownership. 110% respect.
Doesn't it look to you like these men are still acting and dressing like they're part of a gang?
@@josephinetracy1485 That's the West Coast fashion culture and has nothing to do with gangs. That style is recognised and used all around the world. I'm in Australia, and we have been dressing like that here for decades now.
@@josephinetracy1485 Whats that old saying? "never judge a book....."
@@jaer.6540 Yes, but that can't be true for someone trying to promote the opposite behavior.
@@josephinetracy1485 that doesnt make any sense. The point is, your labeling them as being one thing based on your perception of how gangbangers dress. Plenty of people in the world wear their clothes in the same manor, and dont bang. You dont see them wearing their flags or throwing up any set, so how they are dressed is literally irrelevant to anything. Stop being so judgy and look at their actions, not their atire.
"You're not a product of your environment, you're a product of your decisions." Underrated comment.
I agree because I grew up around one of the biggest gangs in LA. Never considered joining a stupid gang..
It is not that black and white. Unfortunately your environment influences your decisions more often than not.
@@blksabbath1yea but some kids are a product
@Poop Butt I know of folks that were born into gangs and decided not to follow their parent/s footsteps. I know it might be hard, but you have a choice!
The Samoan brother gets the award for HOTTEST TAKE OF THE YEAR! "You're not a product of your environment, you're a product of your DECISIONS." Wow!!! So simple but so cutting and true. God bless these guys. You're doing God's work.
Thank you Robert,we appreciate your love and support.💪🏽🙏🏾💙
That is not necessarily true though depending on the situation. Life is far more complicated than a catchphrase can describe.
@@johnsamson9680 Agree
@@johnsamson9680life is no doubt complicated. But there’s only two things in life that we can control, and that’s our effort and our attitude. The difficulty of life does not change the the fact that we are a product of our decisions. To not acknowledge that is victim mentality. Some people are born into deplorable circumstances, and that’s sad. That said, your circumstances might not be your fault, but your life is your responsibility. I fully admit that it’s easier said than done. The first step to breaking the cycle is coming to conclusions elucidated in this video.
Being Mexican myself I always enjoyed the Samoan community how much love they have for family. RESPECT Much love.
True. Respect to Both Samoan and Mexican community. From a Native American.
I am an African that grew up in Hawaii and lived along side many Samoans, Tongans and other Polynesians. Heavy heavy respect to my Samoan brothers and all Polynesians. I really enjoyed the culture
It's just crazy there are polys like these guys and their age still involved recruiting the younger ones. The culture is there for sure. But when it comes to trying to build "street cred" it blows my mind.
Samoans and Tongans hate each other.
As a New Zealander, Samoans are a big community here and make up a large part of all of the major cities and towns. It’s so interesting to see Usos in America and in them speaking with the Cali accent. They’re some of hardest working, honest and loyal people. Props to Peter for showing us a community that is never represented on the media
That’s not true.
@@hollybigwood8939 What's not true? The Cali accent, they are not a big community in New Zealand or they aren't hard working and honest people? lol
I mean if you knew or grew up with The Rock in wrestling or in movies it shouldn't be too "weird" lol. Thanks to him he made me more aware of Polynesian culture as a young Mexican kid in the Southside of Chicago in the 90's!
@Mark Coleman they're in Chicago? Lol Samoans and Tongans are in most southern California cities. Hell the Walmart I go to you have like 6 year Olds the size of adults running around everywhere
@K D (Mexishark) hahahaha as a Tongan I laughed too hard at your 6 year old comment 🤣🤣🤣
I’m Tongan and I used to be in the gang called TCG in Inglewood in the 90’s and I’m 47 years old and I’m grateful and thankful to my uso brothers for making this movement and bringing all of us together by giving us a platform that we all can relate to,even tho we grew up differently and go through struggles on the street life was hard…..I just want to say keep doing what you’re doing the man above will always provide a better way for all of us…..love my uso brother !! putting God first made me see more clearly than before and understand why things are happening now
👍🏽‼️ 🙏🏽‼️
WHY DIDN'T YOU TAKE ADVANTAGE N GET A GOOD EDUCATION OR TRADE?
You know Sid
❤❤❤❤
The TCG were also in New Zealand Auckland back in the early 90s,they were quite big back then
I love how respectful Peter is towards other cultures and neighborhoods.
Keep getting paid big money to do this of course he's going to do that
@chrisnichols9187 That and he's in dangerous hoods and could easily not come home that day.
@@lilme7052 get a grip their buddy he's not alone
@chrisnichols9187 He is. Just him and his camera.
@@chrisnichols9187 Seems to me being respectful comes easy to him because he is out there doing this out of choice and it’s what he likes doing. Many people couldn’t do that for any amount of money.
As a polynesian woman, mother and grandmother, I want to express how proud I am of you men and thank you for the work you do now to save our youth from throwing away their lives. Thank you and God bless you.
I am surprised to see Polynesian youth in gangs to begin with. I always have seen them in settings where they are spiritually focused and in harmony with their surroundings (tahiti and Hawaii) but I am also probably naive. This is sad to see how these cool people come to America and get dragged down into the jungle of darkness and poverty.
@@Cwgrlup There are no big divisions other than the division of good and evil, and evil against other evil. Jesus said he is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father but by him. Christian denominations may even fight each other but that is caused by infiltrating instigators. Pagans and atheists can claim to fight for unity but that will never last. They fight each other all around the world.
My foster son is in a gang in and out of jail. Keep him in your prayers. Love the work you are all doing. God is love!!!
what a dumbass get him out before he dies or ends up in jail
I have no control over him being in a gang. He spends most of his time in jail and his whole face is all full of tatoos. So sad, it didn't have to be this way for him but that is the path he chose and it hurts like hell because he was so loved by our family and he still went in the wrong direction.
@@almabelhumeur6672 where was the dad?
The children were from the reservation which is a tough life. Many don't know their dads in which is the case with my kids. My husband was killed in a car accident which we were all 4 were in. I was driving and a semi ran the stop sign. My husband was killed right there. We are lucky to be alive and it was a long road to recovery for me. The kids too were hospitalized but not quite as long as I was. My sister was kind enough to take care of my foster kids until I came back home. It was a long recovery once I got home as well. It is a long story.
I was born and raised in the Harbor Area. I lived in Wilmington. My father was a Longshoreman. I’m Hispanic and grew up with all different nationalities. I had friends that were Samoan, black, white, and of course Mexican. We all hung out together, my dad even knew some of my friends dads because of working the docks. I wouldn’t change the way we grew up together. We didn’t have segregation, we drank out of the same water faucets, and swam in the same pools. I’m grateful for that. ♥️
Thats right I grew up in wilmington Carson and torrance I have friends of all races
Good that you had a present and engaged father, that is often what is lacking today. Him being a longshoreman probably enabled him to provide for the family.
Me too bro , im from san Pedro ! We had a great time together in the 70s , all races kickin it ,
it's like that everywhere. The media wants you to think otherwise.
I grew up in the Valley…So true
"I used to think I was a product of my environment......but today I understand I'm a product of my decisions" he gets it !!!
I salute my Samoan brothers. I’m black and have always had much love for the brothers and sisters in the Samoan community. May God bless the work that these brothers are doing. Stop the violence.
Literally no one cares.
@@Hr-dy1xvTouch grass
@@Hr-dy1xvobviously someone cares the world doesn't revolve around you
@@Hr-dy1xvyou care enough to leave a comment gtfoh w that bshi
I'm just an old white lady from northern California. I know nothing about gangs except what I've heard on the news. I commend these men in their efforts to transform their neighborhoods. What better way in this crazy world to spend time then trying to save the young and vulnerable. You protect and honor all in your endeavors, God speed gentlemen.
and if they was black you would say the exact opposite y'all really some sick people gross
Pam, your comment was just excellent and encouraging. Lord Bless you, ma'am!
Islanders aren't built for the Western ways. They're much better if they grew up on the islands first, learn the disciplined way, and then if need be find something they're good at and work hard for themselves. sad but true in this capitalist dominated society
Thank you so much Pam 🙏🏾🙏🏾💙
I've worked with many Samoan folks here in Australia, in the child protection field . There presence and quiet confidence creates amazing pathways for children who present with very complex behaviours. We are definitely products of our decisions , although and unfortunately environment often limits those decision making options greatly. Stay strong brothers and "hey" from Oz. 🙃💙💚
Samoan people are natural born warriors and proud people as they should be..Samoans are some of the most family oriented and friendly people you will ever meet..Love the documentary...Love seeing these upstanding men making a difference in the community..Wish there were more men like them..My son would actually listen to them and it would make a difference for him in his life.
They are also a culture that has been seriously injured and twisted by Mormonism
Think America should just deport them, instead of the expense of incarceration
Friendly? I doubt that!!
@@jaymejay6691 how would you know that? Care to elaborate an experience?
They have a similar culture of the Philippines islands and similar tattoos as well. Big families and religious.
I'm half 🇼🇸 and I was raised on a farm in the South. I wasn't raised in the inner city or the islands. That being said, knowing polys are joining gangs and dying in the streets breaks my heart. There aren't enough of us to be killing each other. I pray everyday for my people. I may not know y'all but my heart is right there with y'all.
"I used to think I was a product of my environment, but today I know that I'm a product of my decisions." That quote from the man in the red cap hit hard and is so true. May God bless these men
@@eddiemclaughlin726 true that uce ..
Thank you Jorge,we appreciate the love 💪🏽🙏🏾💙
@eddie mclaughlin your absolutely right brother your surroundings can suck you up and a lot of times we get caught up in the negativity because we ain’t even strong enough mentally to realize what life is all about.You just do what everybody else is doing without thinking about the consequences and before you know it your caught up in this vicious cycle.God bless you brother 🙏🏾🙏🏾💙
Why he beat a man to death though?
@@tractordriver8950 Pay more attention on your next watch.
I live in TeXas, but had a couple of friends that were from LA and they always told me that, if you showed love and respect to Samoans, they would always stay loyal and ride. Greetings from the Lone Star State!
Hey Peter, I have a different piece of this story. I went to Samoa in 2009 and met some gang deportees, became friends with them. They told me all about the life back in California, but I could never really imagine it. Thanks for showing. My other piece of the story is having seen how successful these ex-deportees have made their life in Samoa, and truly using their second chance.
I went to Samoa in the early 2000’s. The culture was very family oriented and beautiful. I see how these guys could go to gangs for the community. They probably lacking community that they would have had in Samoa. Respect to these guys for turning it around.
"I used to always think I was product of my environment - but today I understand I was a product of my decisions" - wow that's powerful
Nothing hit harder than “I always thought I was a product of my environment but realized I was a product of my DECISIONS!”
Amen.
I'm kinda slow.. what does that mean?
@@foejr94 It means exactly that! That you're kinda slow 😂
@@neverthat8654 😂 true bro
@@foejr94 Your name is making me hungry 🤣 Sapasui mulipipi and rice is the bidnez💯
I love this!!! I grew up in Carson being a half mix (samoan/ mexican-Afakasi). I never navigated to the gang scene but a lot of my cousins and classmates did, and to see the OG's and the men from my generation changing the community warms my heart. Also seeing samoan food makes me homesick, there aren't any samoan markets out in Texas, not like Carson 😢 Fa'a Samoa❤
I must say, this is probably the best documentary I've ever seen. At no time did I wonder what they did in the past, but was LASER FOCUSED on they way ahead that they are working on. God Bless each and every one of them and Special Thanks to you... This cant be easy but this is the work that NEEDS to be done...and you are part of this POSTITIVE MOVEMENT. This coming from another islander from Guam. Si Yu'os Ma'ase (May God Bless)
Samoans are the nicest people in the world. I remember going to a Samoen club in Carson, as a guest. There were lines at the front door and at the bar to get a drink. On both occasions, I was told to go to the front of the line, I said no ill wait and both time I was told " your a guest you don't wait in line". Love that Culture,
Im mexican 51yrs now and lost my little brother to gang violence at a party just because he was a friend to a couple in that life style in oct 28th 2012 he had just turnt 25yrs 2 weeks before that day..My brother went out to celebrate halloween party because he just pasted state test to become a used car dealership..10yrs later we still feel that pain..Telling my mother the bad news was the hardest thing to do..I feel mothers pain ..just last night my mother had another breakdown thinking about our brother...RIP CARLOS...LOVE U,,,,GREAT JOB GUYS KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK GOD IS WITH YOU..
R.I.P bro,nothing is worse than losing a Brother, Keep you're Head Up,He's in A Better Place 4 Sure.🔝
Prayers for you and your brother mother and family stay strong the hurt never goes away
Rip but also why would there be a state test to be able to sell cars Maybe it's been so long you completely forgot what your bro was studying. In the U.S. you don't even need a degree to be able to make any business that's why it's great
@@IsaacSpeedyBeats he did not forget what his brother was studying. There is a test needed to past to become a car dealership in CA.
Thank you Michael for sharing your pain so sorry for the loss of your brother.One of the biggest impact that changed my life is when I understood the pain I caused my victims and their families.My prayers are with you,mom’s and your family.God Bless 🙏🏾🙏🏾💙
People like these guys have a chance to make America great again. Please never stop doing what you do. Save the kids and you will save the future of America.
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Bruh, Islanders just built different! The way he said "even though we low in numbers, we don't let anybody push us around!!" I understood that. As a Fijian, I'm proud to see my uso's representing out there. Nothing gang related, just PEACE and LOVE brother🤙💯 CHEEHOO!
Much Love & Respect to my Samoan brothers & sisters, Much love from the Navajo Nation.
Natives and Samoans together
These are real men full of elder wisdom...we all need souls like this in our lives.
You guys were right by my neighborhood that I grew up in. My neighbors were Samoan and man did they treat us like family. My mom would always watch their kid or they would would take me to their family gatherings. Really made us feel like family. Beautiful culture. Almost got jumped by like 8 adult Samoans when I was 14playing basketball near there but that never changed my perspective about them. Tough skin with big hearts.
shed a tear at 15:00 , absolutely beautiful what these men are doing for their youth.
We as a country will not survive unless we learn personal responsibility like these men have done. What an absolute breath of fresh air. I hope they accomplish their goals. They are so inspiring.
The us wont survive cause congresa is inept and full of people who dont do their job
Amen. Personal responsibility and accountability are what's required
Do you think a nation made up of deported convicts, vagrants, bastards, whores, landless, and lazy can actually succeed?
Amen
Personal responsibility is a must and yes we do need take that more seriously. However, nothing will ever change America's race relation issues. This country will only allow non whites to accomplish so much to where non whites will not have a choice but to band together. If they want a future in the United States.
Seen a Samoan dude here in North Dakota, he was working concrete, dude goes and picks up a block the size of a human and carries it across the yard, the owner says '' we have a skid steer for that'' and the Samoan dude says, ''save the diesel, it was only 20yards anyway'' lol
I teared up watching him leave flowers at the location where he murdered a man years ago. It is such a simple, but powerful gesture. I really respect what these men are doing in their communities. Our world needs more men like them setting new examples for younger generations.
I respect these men so much for the deep level of ownership they’ve taken over their past actions. In this current culture of promoting victimhood and shirking accountability, they are advocates for a better way that leads to liberty and healed communities. Thank you for featuring their humble stories.
During the mid-ninties I had a Samon GF. One time her sister and the SOS gang came down from Compton for her birthday. All of them were big guys, over 6 feet and very stylish. They were so respectful and family oriented. They did tell me that is was nice to be in a place they would did not fear for a drive-by. Samoan food is so great, and I am a white guy. I still make it to this day and my favorite is chop-suey with roasted taro. If you can, make friends with a Samoan and your life will be enriched. Samoa muamua le atua (in Samoa, god it first!).
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@@PacificMoceans you so fine
Micronesians, Samoans, Hawaiians, and Tongans hate Andrew Tate because he encourages men to control their women, something Samoan men -- despite their size -- are unable and unwilling to do. That's why they let their sister date a haole boy and didn't mind their mom hugging/flirting with him.
Seki a oe uce! GOD first. ✌️
AS food sucks. American Samoans pour "peasoupo" on everything. It is canned extremely salted beef in water, and tastes awful. Western Samoan food is far better since it not befouled by the American junk food (including "peasoupo") that AS people get at discounted prices through American subsidies.
Faʻa Sāmoa! When I was in Samoa, I found Samoans to be the kindest, most giving people I have ever met & I have been to about 25 countries!
I respect the way of life with samoans. They are tight knit group and tough as hell! When you friend a samoan they make you part of there family and are right there to protect you when shit goes down. Very loyal family oriented group of people. Much respect!
I've always loved the Polynesian culture. My daughter is part Samoan. That sapasui is 🤌. I love the respect the older generations show. Dude placed flowers for someone he killed and the way he spoke of the daughters letter speaks volumes of who he is. Respect
I support both the Polynesian and Mexican people.
Thanks for watching! No matter how you feel about this difficult situation, the fact that these guys have turned their mission into keeping kids out of gangs has the ability to save dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of lives. Join or Support the FOU movement here: www.foumovement.org/
Love it!! Awesome of you taking us along for the ride and awesome of them sharing their story.. Beautiful!!
Glad you put out the series and spreading the word on the FOU movement FA'A Samoa
🤙
I respect what these guys are doing and how They're making a difference and trying to change the gang culture. Don't get me wrong I do believe in forgiveness. My little brother was a victim of gang violence and was not a gang member. When you're the victim and watch your family suffer, it's hard to forgive. The saddest thing you can experience is a mother burry her child and I have experience this twice. Just from experience and being on the other side of the coin, forgiveness is not an option sometimes. But I do love to hear guys are trying to change and make a difference. Thats what I loved the most about this video. Love and respect to them for making a difference.
Why do you act so naive when they talk?? when you been and documented that you know exactly what they are referring too or talking about. I wouldn't say culture vulture but damn near
29:08 when he expresses the magnitude of the letter in the wallet from the victims daughter, that was touching. I come from gang infested neighborhood in the area. My parents were gang members. By the grace of God, my parents turned around and I serve as a Pastor in the area now. My 3 daughters do not have to experience that. Great documentary and I pray for this work to continue.
How much these people own their mistakes is crazy to me. wow. much respect!
These guys really touched my heart. The suffering we create for ourselves and others is so great. It’s a blessing in itself to have the chance to turn it around in the same life still.
As a native Upstate New Yorker, it’s amazing to hear a Samoan truck driver compare my home to her tropical island. NEVER heard that before but that’s a beautiful compliment. Most people say frozen tundra. 😁
As a Samoan here where this was filmed at it caught me off guard as well. It must be the vibe there in Upstate New York. It must be peaceful, serene, and tight knit as well as beautiful to compare it to Samoa 🤷♂️ 👍
Probably the summertime
As over-the-road truck drivers, we stay mainly on the highways. She is speaking of a stretch of highway near Albany, NY, that reminds her of a tropical rainforest, undisturbed by humans. That beauty and calm is what reminds her of the mountains of Samoa. 🇦🇸 🇼🇸
@@Uso213 What's the name of that road? Might want to take a look if I'm ever in that area
@@alelokaoseumu I wish I knew the exact location or the route number. I had hoped to return soon after that trip but we never did due to it wasn’t our regular route. It was in the Summer of 2020 when driving through there; and there seemed to be a high alert of some sort because there were State Troopers everywhere on those Upstate NY highways. It may have been the 87 or the 9. I’m sorry, to help me remember, I can’t recall the name of the city where we dropped off our truck load without looking at our paperwork, if we even still have them. We haven’t been over the road since September 2021. I’m hoping another Trucker will know and come tell us so I can revisit that area as well. New York is a beautiful state. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to drive through there and across this great country. 🇺🇸
I work with Samoans… they are !!!!! The sweetest and kindest people? Not to mention the hardest working people… love them..
@@ripmurdock232 that’s what they say.. and like I said? I love them.
@@ripmurdock232 Samoans are Pacific Islanders.
Peter, thank you and thank you for this video. I'm Samoan and it's sad to see the boys didn't get the help they needed in the past. I'm not proud of what they did in the past, but I'm very proud of what the outcome is, and what they are doing now to help the community. Good luck to the boys to keep up the good work, and best wishes to you for the great work you are doing 👍
I'm a maori from Australia and we are very close with our Samoan family. It's so crazy seeing the difference between Samoans from Samoa and American Samoans. It's all love but man the difference is crazy.
Respect to my Maori and Samoan people. Love from Native Americans
I’m 47 from Northern California. I grew up around Samoan families. They took me in as family. They would call me , “runt” being the runt of the family. I was 5’10 in junior high school. And my Samoan brothers were over 6 foot! Lol I miss my brothers and sisters. We grew up and moved away. Some did good and others passed away. And till this day. I will never forget the Love and friendship. God is first. Family second. Love this Documentary. Made me shed a few tears. Love you all :)
Thank you Brother Ray for sharing and showing some love for what we are trying to do for our community,youth and our families.Much love to you My Brother 💪🏽🙏🏾💙
Always admired the Samoan brothers in LA, coming from a Yaqui Mexican background , it was cool to be around a family oriented tribal people. They were and are a force to be Reckoned with. Mad respect for their outreach work in their communities. I consider these brothers tribal elders, teachers and traditional healers.
I'm part yaqui. No one ever knows what I'm talking about when they ask what my ethnicities are
They are idiots.
Me too I'm yaqui
@@goddammitalanaMexicans know what Yaquis have endured
My 3x great grandmother was Yaqui from Sonora that's what's up
A really great look at an environment many people know nothing about. I feel much more empathy now for people who grow up in a rough place such as this. Great job, and thank you to the people working to turn the gang situation around.
Carson love man, I grew up in Carson in the 80s and 90s… had so many samoan friends, especially from Scottsdale and some from long beach. Watching these guys made me smile. These dudes dropping knowledge. You’re exactly the product of your decisions and actions. People gotta remember that, it’s a shame that some of this knowledge comes with age and it’s sad when you see the older generation that STILL don’t get it and understand it. As a paramedic man, I’ve worked on so many people from many walks of life that has died to senseless gang violence… I’m glad I myself was able to escape that life… the la county fire explorer program got me out of that as well as the chp explorers… I’ve lost many friends to that life. These guys work is very important
As a Tongan I'm proud to see my Samoan brothers thrive within their culture so far from home in a lot smaller numbers. Fa'avae i le Atua Samoa 🇼🇸
It’s beautiful I have many Tongan family members & Samoan “ yes I am white my aunt married into the family” like I said this is beautiful what they are doing is definitely God sent. Sending all my love to them
RS I got infinite respect for y'all samoans! Idk what it is but y'all are just absolutely amazing💯🙏🏽💙
YEAH, THRIVING KILLING INNOCENT PEOPLE ! YEAH, SOMETHING TO REALLY be PROUD OF
Fijian here. Love seeing more island culture on KZhead. These guys were rad.
@Bill Carson I won't speculate on your race but I'm sure if your name is as white as it sounds than your people have nothing to be proud of as well with all the atrocities of the past and to this day with the Middle East and Africa.
as a 28 year old, I can’t even begin to fathom spending 30 years in prison. I have the utmost respect and admiration for people who are able to rehabilitate and turn their lives around in such a huge way like this
i mean if you work on one thing for 30 years and cant succeed...idk. how about going your life and not making the bad decisions, that should get respect and admiration.
@@eviloracle I can understand where you’re coming from 100%. I’m just saying it’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that some of these guys spent more time in prison than I have been alive. and to turn your life around in such a dramatic fashion, a complete 180°, is very admirable and garners my respect. it’s not easy making a change of that magnitude when you grow up in a certain lifestyle. it’s basically unlearning everything you were taught in your most formative years. as someone who didn’t grow up around this kind of lifestyle and never had to make a choice to either participate or live in fear of my life, I think it’s easy to be judgmental. I don’t support gang-banging in anyway, and think the culture and mentality is absolutely pointless. but when you grow up in that environment, it becomes all that you know and it can be hard to go the other route when your safety and quality of life is at risk.
@@fadedidentity decisions. The ones you make can be life changing.
@@fadedidentity Well said my Brother. At 43 years young Gang banging is pointless. But at 8 years young and that’s all you see it becomes goals and dreams. Your environment is a key factor but your home is important for you not to join. So create goals and dreams in your home so they don’t look for outside influences. Speaking from experience.
Thank you brother Patrick,we appreciate your love and support.💪🏽🙏🏾💙
This was moving on a level that is nearly impossible to imagine. Mistakes usually can't be undone, and while that is not happening here, these HONORABLE men are doing all they can to try and change things for the better.... KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK my Samoan friends. I salute your group and FOU movement.
Every community need OGs like this.
Love this. Being Filipino from the Bay Area, we are all considered usos with our islander brethren. Samoans and Tongans are the most humblest ppl I know. Shout to all the uces all over the world! 🤙🏽
Don't matter your race, they will consider anyone uso,if you cool or like family wit Samoans/Poly's..
Doesn't matter your race, they even called you a Uso even tho your a Filipino Asian. We got love for everyone
@@AnybodyCngtItK issah islander ting braddah 🤙🏽
@@pastense much love to the Filos Viets and Cambos and all the other Asian nations from us Islanders
@@AnybodyCngtItK you got love for everyone except Tonganz
This got to be the first time I've seen somebody show respect to the person they murdered and really feel sincere about it I respect that homeboy not too many people could do that true growth is taking responsibility for your action it took me me a long time to learn that also
@@pk56403 We respect those who show sincere remorse by speaking of the issues that plagued their neighborhoods and who go to those same troubled areas to guide the youth away from a negative mindset.
I lived there for almost 10 years, had a great childhood, and went through a lot during that time. Witnessed a lot of good and bad, mostly bad. Put in a lot of work in but never became official due to hate. Thank God I didn't because it's not what I thought it was. Learned so much, I'm grateful. made me who I am today.
I’m not Samoan but I’m a pacific islander and seeing these islander brothers tryna make a change for the better I’m very proud of them
it's still terrible that there were/are criminals. why even go to US to live like that? they were better off on their island.
@@CoolGobyFishthat's like saying a New Yorker is better off in New York. These folks are American. They have the same rights as you. Aww, did you think they were immigrants who you can look down on? Lol FOH
@@alelokaoseumu they aren't immigrants, but they left their home to do what? become gang members? it's sad. perhaps they should have stayed on thier island.
@@CoolGobyFish they were born in the US, so they are not immigrants. Their parents are from American Samoa and are US nationals. People have many hopes when they move to a new place. Unfortunately, it does not always guarantee success and street life is something others cling to for a sense of belonging. You are viewing this as if they intentionally moved with committing crime in mind. If anything, they committed crime in their own country.
Watching the video brought me back to some painful memories. You see, I did 23 years in California Department of Corrections for 2nd degree murder, just like the dude with red hat. I beat a dude to death in a fit of rage. I'm a white guy. Everything they said about life inside California prison is absolutely true. The Samoans are the go betweens for whites and blacks. We couldn't deal with blacks directly, whether crips or bloods. Whites didn't associate with Northern Cal Mexicans either, just Southern Cal Mexicans. California prisons were and are extremely racist, segregated and violent. I have respect for all the Usos in the video. They obviously put in years of work to figure out what lead them to murder another human and now are on a path to use the mayhem they caused to help the next generation. I've done the same since being paroled almost eight years ago. Thank you for sharing your stories. May God bless them.
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Alofa atu ❤
Blessings to you, sir. Jesus saves and offers forgiveness. Thank you for being a true man and owning your past. Respect.
Samoan culture is incredibly surrounded in family. They are an incredibly proud people and so full of love. Even as you see the toughness in these warriors. You can also see they are full of love. Do them wrong and you will regret it. Do them right and you’ll be loved forever.
So you support family justice which is exactly the sort of criminal conduct this video tried to prevent. Imagine if these samoan warriors went after a person who had done them wrong and it proved that it wasnt they guy who had done it what would that person have to regret?
@@tisse90 Nothing funnier than when someone tries to twist the meaning of one’s statement. So you miss me with that BS about what I support concerning family justice. Nowhere in this video did anyone mention family justice being taken out on anyone. What was said. That a guy was having a tough time in his youth, with losing a friend. Dude paid for his actions as permitted by the government. Now he is trying to do his best on a daily basis to make amends as he sees he needs to. Is it enough for the victim’s family? I can’t answer that, as I don’t know them. So I don’t see what goal you have, in making this bogus comment. Maybe you can find something better to do with your time than making the DERP of a comment you made? Keep it pushing.
Incredible.
Small Island who are they reproducing with? Hmmmm....family? Those bis ass Samoa women that look like linebackers 😷
@@user-lb6fe6tv7p lame
"We should stand in awe of what the homies carry, rather than sitting in judgment of how they carry it." Signed, Father Gregory Boyle
The first Gangstas I've ever seen taking full responsibility for what they've done to their neighborhoods and to their culture and the next generations.
Grew up with Samoans, Togans, and Fijians up in NorCal close to the Bay Area.. Mainly Samoans with the Fatu families!! Some of the most genuine ppl, soft spoken, and family oriented. Not an once of fear run through them ppl. Much respect to my Bruddas !! Tappin in from Sactown 916
Yee
When these giants of love and change of redemption prayed. I felt the love, I felt the hope, I felt they brought God with them. Thank you to these men and you Peter for sharing their mission to change the world they live in.
Right and respect to these OG 🫡
amen sister
🙏 Amen
Amen
I had some amazing Samoa friends in High school some of best friends I had. Good family's. BIG LOVE to all of my Samoa 🇼🇸 community!!!!
Thank you guys for what your doing. Its not easy living up in the USA but you guys hanged in here. God bless the Samoans. You came out of it like am Americans!
This is why I love this channel. Peter dives deep into all types of culture and brings out a deeper meaning. I was around gang stuff but was never a part of it. I was fortunate enough to be raised by hard nosed parents that would tell me how difficult it was to get to America and for me to be ignorant to just throw it all away by getting into trouble. But I know for a fact some gangs form out of necessity. Samoans are some of the most loyal people I know. This was a great video!
I think they don t have it in Culture the Gangs to Begin with. It looks like an Imitation of Blacks and Latinos not anything Special
He is certainly not afraid to tell the story.
@@schwags1969 in order to grow from this, he had to “sit in the fire”, learn to be vulnerable and be able to talk about uncomfortable things in group discussions. He did a lot of self-help programs while in prison. He had to share about his life experiences.
@los angeles .. B.S don’t stereotype , not everyone, I met too many Samoans & Tongas and they’re good people with Mexicans and others too. I lived in the Pacific Northwest and I have a great memories of some USOS .
By the grace of God, there’s no life that can’t be turned around. It was very powerful seeing the level of remorse that was felt by the gentleman that took the life of the young man 30 years ago. May God continue to bless the work they’re doing to end the senseless violence in their community.🙏
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That OG who said "im more afraid of my mother, then the people on the streets" absolutely is true with the Samoans i lived with on the islands, a scary looking 300lb dude, will absolutely never disrespect his mother or do anything to disappoint her
Im a product of my environment vs Im a product of my decisions. Two different mindsets. One empowers you. The other willingly gives up power. There nothing more self empowering than personal accountability.
I’m from Compton not Samoan but I love my Usos from Compton to everywhere in the South Bay. Most loving people on earth.
I cried through most of this. Forgiveness is real. Change is real. Second chances are real.
Some of THE MOST naturally strongest men I’ve ever met.
This channel needs some sort of recognition for humanity, peace giving, and love. Thanks again for your work Peter.
An award 🏆
It’s like a contemporary video version of Humans of New York, on a global scale.
All are good! But My favorite episodes are the Chicano's & this one 👍 God bless
I had no idea the Samoan community was so troubled. Hats off to these gentlemen who are trying to help
"I used to think I was a product of my envirement, but today I understand Im a product of my decision". Real talk.
Peter, this is one of the best videos you have done. It made me feel hopeful for our future. Thank all of you who shared the stories, showing us that we are all in this together. Peace.
I lost a family member to a beating in the street 9 years ago, it had nothing to do with gang life. I take my hat off to UPU though. Myself and my family never got justice on the person that took a life of our family member. It warms my hart to see this man’s morals and understanding to what he did and doing everything in his power to help from others from doing the same to themselves and others families. Bless FOU movement!
When I played rugby at a small northwestern college in the late 80s/early 90s, we matched up in a non-conference game against the Portland Samoan/Tongan Men's side. The smallest guy on their team was 226 pounds, and they concussed our best player in the first half. Respect to the Samoan-Americans!
A lot of Uso's in the Northwest. Worked at a glass manufacturing plant in Tacoma with lots of them. Strong individual's!.
100%. They make up much of the cast for Jason Momoa's Chief of War...just their stature alone.... I wouldn't call them entirely unintimidating, I'm over here craning my neck just to make eye contact with their chins lol.
Peter makes the best documentaries. I hope he becomes more and more well known. Culture is the most beautiful thing to share with each other
This was one of my all time favorites. These men are doing a great thing and I pray that they can make a difference for their community. I felt chocked up through the whole thing. ❤ Thank you for what you are doing. -A fellow LDS Sister.
Im from LA and I need to meet these men. Shake their hand . Give them the respect they deserve. I want to support their movement .
Watching that man lead a prayer for the man that he killed was extremely powerful and moving. These men are doing gods work and I hope there message touches everyone they meet. It definitely impacted me in this moment
Amen.. "God's" work...🌹
Ain’t nothing but love,thank you for sharing 💪🏽🙏🏾💙
These men praying warmed my heart. The toughest men in the world recognize there is a Supreme God we are accountable to.
Awesome about how putting God first can be life changing. I work directly with the homeless in Anchorage, Alaska and read devotionals every morning. It makes a difference.
I'm not Mormon, but I did live in Provo, UT in the 90's where there are a lot of Mormons and quite a few Samoans. A lot of Samoans are big, scary looking dudes, but almost always very cool, respectful, and all about family. I really enjoyed watching this, love what these guys are doing. At around 29 minutes into this video, Upu tells his story of what happened 30 years ago. Brought a tear to my eye and a lump in my throat, talking about the victims daughter, the letter, and how Upu tries to atone for his mistakes. Thanks for these incredible videos, Peter.
Provo…. Isn’t where that crazy school is for children?!
@@SofiaTHEfIRST1873 I don't know. I think Paris Hilton mentioned one once, some kind of youth treatment center.
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The ones in Utah? Sure. But the ones in the East Bay, Stockton, Sacramento, and So Cal or the Inland Empire are people you want to avoid. Ditto for the ones in Vegas
@@blake9668 what do you actually know about the polys in Utah?
All you can say is " RESPECT " to these men who paid their time and turned their lives around and are serving our Lord. 🙏
This was very good to watch listening them see & comment on their own wrongs turning into a positive movement
I loved this Documentary. Deep on many levels about life, I'm proud to be Samoan, and it spoke so many words to my heart to hear the testimonies and actions of the OG's, So much respect form SEA WA., Mua Mua Le Atua!
As a truck driver myself. I would love to meet Upu and his wife out on the road so I could shake their hands and give them a hug for sharing their story and helping others!
🙏🏾🙏🏾💙
Right, I’m broker and I would love for them to do a run for me.
I grew up around islanders Samoans, Tongans, Hawaiians etc. They are some of the nicest, funniest, honorable people I’ve met that could beat some ass if they had to. This video just felt nostalgic man, the guy in the red hat reminds me of my uncle Smalls, RIP Keep up the dope vids brotha!
Thank you Alexx for your love and support.💪🏽🙏🏾💙
Same here, raised in Lennox and they were really nice and family oriented, and funny too. Miss those days!
Facts! Great, and beautiful people.