Growing up on the small island of Guam, Julian Aguon saw firsthand the ways in which the law was used against Indigenous peoples. From land grabs to cultural erasure, he witnessed the injustices faced by his community at the hands of those in power. But rather than sit idly by, Julian has made it his life’s mission to fight back and advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples not just on Guam, but around the world.
Born and raised on Guam, Julian was always aware of the struggles faced by his people. As a child, he saw how traditional Chamorro customs and beliefs were pushed aside in favor of Western ideologies. He watched as ancestral lands were taken for military bases and tourist attractions, leaving many families displaced and disconnected from their roots. And he witnessed the legal system being used to justify these actions, often at the expense of the island’s Indigenous population.
But instead of feeling defeated by these injustices, Julian was inspired to take action. He pursued a career in law, knowing that this would be his way to make a difference and bring about positive change for his community. He studied at Harvard Law School and later returned to Guam to practice law and fight for the rights of the people he grew up alongside.
Through his work, Julian has become a leading voice in the fight for Indigenous rights. He has represented individuals and communities in legal battles against the US military and other institutions that have exploited their land and resources. He has also worked tirelessly to preserve and promote Chamorro culture, recognizing the importance of keeping traditions alive in the face of cultural assimilation.
One of Julian’s most notable achievements was his role in the successful campaign to stop the construction of a US military firing range on the island of Pagan, a sacred site for the Chamorro people. Despite facing backlash from government officials and powerful corporations, Julian and his team were able to secure a victory for the Indigenous community and protect their ancestral lands.
In addition to his legal work, Julian is also a prolific writer and activist. He has published several books and articles highlighting the struggles faced by Indigenous peoples and advocating for their rights. He is a sought-after speaker, using his platform to raise awareness and educate others on the issues facing Indigenous communities.
Julian’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being named one of Guam’s “40 Under 40” young leaders and a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship. But for Julian, the true reward comes from seeing the impact of his advocacy on the lives of those he fights for.
His work has not been without its challenges, and Julian has faced criticism and opposition from those who do not share his views. But he remains steadfast in his commitment to advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples. He believes that through education and dialogue, understanding and respect can be fostered, leading to a more just and equitable world for all.
Today, Julian continues to fight for the rights of Indigenous peoples, not just on Guam but around the world. He has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who have long been marginalized and silenced. Through his unwavering dedication and determination, he has proven that one person can make a difference and that the law can be a powerful tool for social change.
As Julian himself once said, “The law is a tool, and like any tool, it can be used for good or for ill. It is up to us to determine its use.” And Julian has chosen to use the law for good, to defend the rights of Indigenous peoples and create a better future for generations to come. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have on the world.
