HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Oʻahu Council of the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs strongly denounced a comment made during the Honolulu City Council meeting on Dec.11 that called ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, the Hawaiian language, a “dead language.”
Jacob Aki, President of Ke One O Kākuhihewa, expressed his frustration, saying, “Calling ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi a ‘dead language’ disrespects decades of tireless efforts by the Hawaiian community to revive and sustain it.”
He emphasized that the comment ignored the language’s vital role in Hawaiian culture and its status as one of the official languages of Hawaiʻi.
Despite historical suppression, including a ban on its use in schools, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi has seen a resurgence due to the dedication of the Hawaiian community.
Programs like ʻAha Pūnana Leo, Hawaiian-medium K-12 education, and university courses have made the language accessible to thousands who now speak it daily.
Aki added, “This is about more than just words—it’s about the survival of our identity and culture. The idea that the language is ‘dead’ is both false and dismissive of the vibrant efforts happening in homes, schools, and communities across Hawaiʻi.”
Ke One O Kākuhihewa praised Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters, Vice Chair Esther Kiaʻāina, and Councilmember Andria Tupola for defending ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi during the meeting. Their support highlights the importance of respecting Hawaiian language and culture in public life.
Aki also stressed the need for greater education and awareness, stating, “Recognizing Hawaiian as an official language is just the beginning. We must expand its use and visibility in public spaces and support policies that help it thrive.”