This kuleana is increasingly important in Hawaiʻi’s contemporary society and equally as challenging.
As kānaka living in 2022, we have the same kuleana to uphold, mālama, and invest in the wellbeing of our lāhui through all avenues. This same kuleana continues to exist today. This was a heavy kuleana for our aliʻi, one they navigated successfully. The intellect of our aliʻi allowed them to adhere to traditional values, practices, and beliefs, while adapting to a changing society, working within a foreign structure and appropriating it to their own lāhui’s benefit. Just like many other aliʻi trusts, the foresight of Kamehameha V continues to benefit our people, even 156 years later. The status, stature and respect afforded to these organizations are a testament to the importance of the core characteristics embodied by our aliʻi, kūpuna, and people characteristics that are still relevant and important today. Similarly, other aliʻi societies such as the ʻAhahui Kaʻahumanu and Hale o Nā Aliʻi also encourage us to continue practicing our culture. They bring to the forefront the ways of our aliʻi and remind us to adhere to the fundamental model demonstrated by their presence and work. The simple existence, let alone the success, of the Royal Order of Kamehameha with its various chapters throughout Hawaiʻi, is an example of Hawaiian values and kuleana thriving in 2022. The organization is dedicated to defending the sovereignty of Hawaiʻi, carrying out the kuleana to uplift Kānaka Maoli, and upholding Hawaiian values and characteristics such as friendship, benevolence, charity, leadership, good moral character, and physical health. The vibrancy of this organization exemplifies the fluidity and health of our culture, people, and place.Įstablished in 1865 by Kamehameha V, Lot Kapuāiwa, the Royal Order of Kamehameha was founded to honor the legacy of Kamehameha I. This wonderful annual milestone not only represents the strength of this distinguished Hawaiian organization but also reminds us that the time of our aliʻi isn’t just a distant memory that exists only in history. The evening reminded me of historical accounts of celebrations at ʻIolani Palace when the festivities would include music by the Royal Hawaiian Band that could be heard throughout downtown Honolulu. The celebration was attended by many notable leaders throughout our community – all dressed for the occasion.
I was honored to attend the last Jubilee celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Royal Order of Kamehameha in Wailea, Maui, in 2016.
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