Kaui Sai Doudwa outlines vision for Hawaiian history revitalization initiatives

The Committee on Budget and Finance of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) convened to discuss funding strategies and community engagement initiatives aimed at enhancing Hawaiian cultural education. The meeting highlighted ongoing collaborations with various foundations, including the Hawaii Community Foundation and the Mellon Foundation, as well as the importance of local investment in these efforts.

A key focus of the discussion was the need for sustainable funding to support educational programs that promote Hawaiian history and language. The committee emphasized a model where professionals in the field contribute additional hours to enhance educational outcomes, thereby enriching the skill sets of both educators and students. This approach aims to foster a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture among the younger generation.

Kaui Sai Doudwa, the director of a Hawaiian language newspaper project, shared personal experiences that underscored the significance of integrating history and language in education. Doudwa expressed a commitment to making Hawaiian history accessible and relevant, noting the importance of teaching the language alongside its historical context. She highlighted recent initiatives, including the creation of an online platform for educators and a graphic novel based on Hawaiian history, aimed at engaging youth in their cultural heritage.

Trustees expressed strong support for these initiatives, recognizing the potential for collaboration and the need for a committed financial partnership from OHA. The discussions pointed to a five-year plan focused on intensive training and resource development, with the goal of empowering future generations to carry forward Hawaiian cultural knowledge.

The meeting concluded with a call for OHA's commitment to these educational efforts, emphasizing that a dedicated financial block would enable the continuation and expansion of programs that serve the Hawaiian community. The trustees acknowledged the importance of this work and the role it plays in preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture for future generations.