Relationships with Yap

Historically the Japanese and Yapese have not gotten along very well. When the Japanese came to Yap in the 1940s they came with the attitude that they were far superior and simply could take and do whatever they wanted. Some of the local Yapese said that the Japanese policemen would beat the Yapese without any cause or they would take things from them whenever they wanted. They said they would see a crab run into a sacred statue to hide. Well the Japanese saw no problem tearing down the statue to get the one little crab, no matter how important the statue was for the Yapese. These kinds of actions have not been forgotten and is a big reason why the Yapese are opposed to having outsiders come in and build a mega resort. They are very passionate about tradition and they felt as though outsiders will disrespect their values. I think one of the reasons that Queens has been so successful on our trips to Yap is because we do respect and value the Yapese opinion and beliefs. Like we discussed in class, we ask what needs to be done instead of telling the Yapese what needs to be done. We show a genuine interest in what they want and need which is why we have the relationship we do with them. As long as we continue to show respect for their beliefs and values I believe we will be welcomed back for years to come.  However the same cannot be said for the Japanese and Chinese. Their actions ruined any chance they had for successfully negotiating with the Yap people.