The first Hawaiian History Month has been launched by the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa in collaboration with the . The month-long celebration commences on Wednesday, September 2, in honor of Queen ³¢¾±±ô¾±ʻ³Ü´Ç°ì²¹±ô²¹²Ô¾±¡¯²õ 182nd birthday.
“The Queen spoke, sang and composed in Hawaiian and English and we continue to learn today from these various forms of moʻolelo that are documented in her diaries, her mele, etc. Her perseverance through challenging times encourages us to be steadfast today so that our students and community can thrive,” Â鶹´«Ã½nuiākea Dean Jon Kamakawiwoʻole Osorio said.
A virtual celebration in observation of ±á²¹·É²¹¾±ʻ¾±¡¯²õ last reigning monarch will be at 8:45 a.m. from ʻIolani Palace on September 2 and will also be posted on . Events will continue with a .
Organizers view Hawaiian History Month as an opportunity to share ±á²¹·É²¹¾±ʻ¾±¡¯²õ true history along with the contributions of the Native Hawaiian community. Each week will focus on a different theme ranging from traditional storytelling to song composition.
On Saturday, September 5, at 4 p.m., Â鶹´«Ã½nuiākea faculty and staff will collectively present, . They will break down the role the school has played for many years in shaping Hawaiian history and its commitment to empowering students through ʻike kupuna (Hawaiian ancestral knowledge). The presentation will feature Â鶹´«Ã½nuiākea Dean Osorio, Kamakakūokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies Director Kekuewa Kikiloi and Native Hawaiian Student Services Director Willy Kauai. Malia Nobrega, director of strategic partnerships at Â鶹´«Ã½nuiākea has helped the month-long celebration pivot to virtual events.
—By Moanikeʻala Nabarro