On November 28th, we celebrated a deeply significant day in Hawaiian history: Lā Kūʻokoʻa, or Hawaiian Independence Day. This day marks the anniversary of November 28, 1843, when Great Britain and France formally recognized the sovereignty of the Hawaiian Kingdom through the Anglo-Franco Proclamation. It is a moment to reflect on the resilience, leadership, and diplomacy of our beloved aliʻi and the enduring independence of our lāhui.
On December 3, 2024, we commemorated this day with a special huakaʻi to ʻIolani Palace, a place that stands as a symbol of our history and identity. Our haumana and kumu came together to honor our aliʻi through protocol and hoʻokupu at Pōhukaina, the sacred burial grounds, and at the statue of Queen Liliʻuokalani, our last reigning monarch.
These moments were filled with reverence as we chanted, offered hoʻokupu, and reflected on the legacy of our aliʻi who dedicated their lives to the well-being of our people. Standing in these wahi pana (sacred places), we were reminded of the kuleana we carry to continue their work and uphold the independence of our culture and people.
The rest of the day was a celebration of learning and connection. Through moʻolelo, mele, and games, our haumana deepened their understanding of key figures who shaped Lā Kūʻokoʻa:
Thomas Haʻalilio, the Kingdom's first diplomat, who played an integral role in securing international recognition of Hawaiian independence.
Sir George Simpson, who traveled alongside Haʻalilio to advocate for the sovereignty of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
William Richards, whose work in diplomacy and governance supported the efforts to protect Hawaiʻi’s sovereignty.
By engaging with their stories, we gained a greater appreciation for the foresight, courage, and dedication of these leaders who navigated the complexities of 19th-century global politics to protect the independence of our nation.
Through mele and games, we not only learned about these historical figures but also connected to their legacies in a way that was both fun and meaningful. The activities fostered a sense of community and pride as we celebrated the strength of our culture and history.
As we closed the day, the haumana carried with them the mana of our aliʻi and the understanding that Lā Kūʻokoʻa is more than a day of remembrance—it is a call to action. It reminds us to honor the foundation laid by our ancestors and to live with intention, always striving to strengthen our lāhui.
E mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono. May the sovereignty of the land be perpetuated in righteousness.
Let us continue to uplift the stories of our aliʻi and the enduring sovereignty of our people.
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