As we commemorate Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea each year, it's vital to reflect on the intersection of our historical struggles and the present-day challenges of climate change. Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea commemorates the restoration of Hawaiian sovereignty from British forces on July 31, 1843. This day is a vibrant reminder of the principles of justice and self-determination embodied by King Kamehameha III’s proclamation "Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono" — "The sovereignty of the land is perpetuated in righteousness." It underscores a commitment to ensuring that the land and its people are treated with respect and integrity, a principle that resonates deeply with our climate equity work today.
The legacy of colonialism, culminating in the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom 50 years later by American forces and businessmen, has had lasting impacts on the environment and cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands. The commodification of land, extraction of resources, and disregard for traditional knowledge have all contributed to the climate challenges we face.
The Resilience Office’s work is inherently linked to addressing these historical injustices. It involves mitigating community and environmental impacts, and also honoring and incorporating ʻike and practices as solutions for these challenges and to redress injustice. By recognizing the historical context of Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea, we acknowledge the need for restorative justice and stewardship that honors the wisdom of those who have long understood and managed the land.
This year, we also recognize the crucial work being done by Native Hawaiian organizations to address climate change. The Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program, announced by the Department of the Interior, exemplifies this effort. This $20 million funding program supports Native Hawaiian initiatives to redefine and refine climate change and resilience from a Native Hawaiian perspective, enhancing the community’s ability to navigate climate impacts while preserving cultural integrity (https://lnkd.in/gkuEn_-W). Additionally, our partnerships through the Climate Champions program are also supporting place-based leadership and building trust between community and government (https://lnkd.in/g5PhjwQg).
By respecting indigenous knowledge and advocating for equitable solutions, we can work towards a future where our policies are deeply rooted in justice and respect for all peoples and their ancestral lands. The principles of Aloha ʻĀina, self-determination, and cultural knowledge that underpin these programs are central to building a sustainable future for all. In this spirit, let us carry forward the legacy of Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea and commit to integrating the values of sovereignty and righteousness into our climate initiatives, reaffirming our dedication to building a resilient and just future for all.
📸 credit: Kanaeokana