Pulehunui Hawaiian Homestead Association launches to empower Native Hawaiian communities in agriculture

In a significant step towards empowering Native Hawaiian communities, the newly formed Pulehunui Hawaiian Homestead Association was introduced during the Hawaiian Homes Commission Regular Meeting on January 22, 2025. Incorporated just last month, this nonprofit organization aims to educate, empower, and engage Hawaiian homeland beneficiaries through initiatives centered on farming, ranching, and economic activities that promote Native Hawaiian sovereignty.

The association's mission is rooted in self-determination and self-governance, emphasizing a culturally appropriate, community-based approach. The organization will focus its efforts on a designated agricultural area that spans 184 acres in the North and 646 acres on the mauka side of Haleakala, which includes land set aside for light industrial use and agricultural activities.

Leading the association is a dedicated board, including President [Name], Vice President Uncle Bobby Pahia, a renowned kalo farmer committed to food security, Secretary Kainoa Lehi McDonald, an advocate for Hawaiian Homes Commission beneficiaries, and Treasurer Tema Watson, a seasoned nonprofit advisor and small business owner. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision for the future of their community.

As the meeting progressed, the importance of stewardship over the land was underscored, with a poignant reminder that "land is cheap, and we are its servants." This sentiment reflects a deep commitment to responsible land management and the well-being of future generations.

The establishment of the Pulehunui Hawaiian Homestead Association marks a hopeful chapter for Hawaiian homeland beneficiaries, as they strive to create a sustainable and culturally rich community that honors their heritage while fostering economic growth. As the organization embarks on its journey, it aims to collaborate closely with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and respected in the ongoing development of their homesteads.