HONOLULU (KHON2) — This September is the first formally recognized Hawaiian History Month.
Signed into law in June, Gov. Josh Green signed Act 167, which formally designated September as Hawaiian History Month, with its observance anchored around the Queen’s birthday on Sep. 2.
“Hawaiian history is not something in the past, it is living, breathing and shaping the way we care for one another today,” said Jonathan Kay Kamakawiwoʻole Osorio, dean of UH Mānoa’s Hawaiʻinuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge. “At Hawaiʻinuiākea, it is our kuleana to ensure that Hawaiian history is taught and conveyed responsibly, authentically and with aloha for our people.”
The Mayor’s Office of Culture and Arts opened up the month with a ceremony at Kapolei Hale, where a 22-foot-wide, 8-foot-tall ʻUmeke Lāʻau (Culture Medicine) stands.
Created by Native Hawaiian artist Meleanna Aluli Meyer, the ʻUmeke Lāʻau serves as a living monument of healing and reflection.
“The City and County of Honolulu’s job isn’t just services, it’s also making sure Hawaiian culture is valued, visible and accessible,” said Jennifer Santos, executive director of MOCA. “Honolulu Hale and Kapolei Hale are more than places to do business, they’re part of the heartbeat of our community, carrying culture, history and art for everyone who walks through these doors.”
The City will host multiple events at Kapolei Hale and Mission Memorial Auditorium in Honolulu, all of which are free for the public.
For a full list of events, visit the Hawaiian History Month website.