Marshallese Voices: Culture, History & Community
Marshallese Voices is a community platform dedicated to celebrating the culture, history, and contributions of the Marshallese people (Ri-Majol). Based in Springdale, Northwest Arkansas, home to the largest Marshallese community in the continental United States.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to raising awareness about the Marshallese community, their extraordinary culture, including language, cuisine and traditions. We bridge the Marshall Islands and Northwest Arkansas by sharing Marshallese history, preserving cultural traditions, and connecting the community with vital resources.
History
The Marshall Islands carry a profound history shaped by ancient Polynesian navigation, colonial occupation, and the history of US nuclear testing (1946 to 1958) at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls. 67 nuclear weapons tests displaced entire communities and caused lasting health and environmental consequences.
COFA & Migration
The Compact of Free Association (COFA) between the US and the Republic of the Marshall Islands allows Marshallese citizens to live, work, and study in the United States. This agreement led to significant migration to Northwest Arkansas, particularly Springdale, creating a vibrant and growing community.
Culture
Marshallese culture is deeply rooted in ocean navigation, traditional weaving, canoe building, communal living, and the Marshallese language (Kajin Majol). The matrilineal clan system and respect for elders remain central to community life.
Traditional Food
Marshallese cuisine features breadfruit, coconut, pandanus, taro, and fresh seafood. Traditional dishes connect the community to their island heritage even thousands of miles from home.
Events
Community events, cultural celebrations, and gatherings in Northwest Arkansas that bring the Marshallese community together and share their culture with neighbors.
Marshallese Voices: A Community Conversation — Thursday, August 20, 2026, 6:00–7:30 PM at The Commons, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712. Free admission. RSVP on Eventbrite · Event details at crystalbridges.org.
Annual celebrations: Constitution Day (May), Fisherman's Day (first Friday in July), Ri-Jerbal Day / Labor Day (first Friday in September), Gospel Day (first Friday of December), and Good Friday (April).
Resources
Healthcare access, COFA benefits information, educational programs, and community organizations serving the Marshallese population in Springdale and NW Arkansas.
Gallery
Photos and images celebrating Marshallese culture, community events, traditional arts, and life in both the Marshall Islands and Northwest Arkansas.
About
My name is Leyla and I am a high school student based in Northwest Arkansas. After having lived in multiple countries, my family and I eventually found our home here five years ago. Since then, through friends at school and connections within our community, I was introduced to Marshallese culture and quickly became fascinated by its rich history, traditions, and stories.
As I learned more about the Marshallese community, I noticed that many of these stories and experiences are rarely heard outside the community itself. Through interviews, conversations with community members, and independent research, I developed a passion for documenting and preserving these voices. My goal is not only to share these stories with a broader audience, but also to create a resource that future generations can use to learn about their heritage, identity, and community.
Marshallese Voices was created to celebrate the experiences, perspectives, and contributions of Marshallese people in Arkansas and beyond. By collecting oral histories and sharing cultural knowledge, I hope to foster greater understanding between cultures and ensure that these important voices continue to be heard.
Contact
Get in touch with Marshallese Voices. We welcome collaboration, story submissions, and community partnerships.
Languages: English, Marshallese (Kajin Majol), French, Turkish, Spanish
Location: Springdale, Arkansas, Northwest Arkansas
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