The Fight To Take Back Hawaii | Foreign Correspondent
ABC News In-depth・2 minutes read
Hawaii's native Hawaiians face struggles due to historical land loss, while surfing remains a significant part of Hawaiian culture and history. Efforts are being made to address issues like housing affordability, cultural education, and reclaiming stolen land to build a self-sustaining community for future generations.
Insights
- Native Hawaiians, like the Kanakamali, have suffered significant losses in land, language, and culture due to historical actions by the United States, impacting their way of life and identity.
- Twinkle Borge's efforts to provide refuge and reclaim land for houseless Hawaiians reflect a broader movement in Hawaii to address housing affordability, cultural preservation, and environmental concerns, showcasing a community-driven approach to combating systemic challenges and fostering self-sustainability.
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Recent questions
What is the significance of surfing in Hawaiian culture?
Surfing in Hawaiian culture is not just a sport but a way of life deeply rooted in tradition. Referred to as the water men and women, surfers are revered practitioners who embody the connection between the people and the ocean. Surfing holds spiritual and communal importance, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature that is central to Hawaiian beliefs. The sport's history in Hawaii dates back centuries, making it an integral part of the island's identity and heritage.
How has Hawaii's history impacted its native population?
Hawaii's history has had a profound impact on its native population, the Kanakamali. From the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 to the colonization and transformation of the islands into farms for mass production, native Hawaiians have faced significant land, language, and cultural losses. The historical injustices have led to ongoing struggles for the Kanakamali, including housing affordability crises, high rates of houselessness, and environmental concerns due to the presence of US military bases on the islands.
Who is Twinkle Borge and what is her role in the Hawaiian community?
Twinkle Borge is a community leader in Hawaii who has played a crucial role in supporting houseless Hawaiians. She created a refuge at Waianae Boat Harbour, providing a safe and supportive environment for around 250 residents who have been disproportionately affected by the housing affordability crisis. Twinkle's efforts extend to reclaiming land in a valley to build a permanent home for her community, focusing on self-sustainability, education, and cultural preservation for future generations.
What are some environmental concerns in Hawaii related to US military presence?
The presence of US military bases in Hawaii, including Pearl Harbor, has raised environmental concerns such as jet fuel leaks contaminating the fresh water supply. This has sparked calls for the cancellation of military leases and highlighted the issue of stolen land, as the bases occupy significant portions of Hawaiian territory. The environmental impact of military activities in Hawaii underscores the ongoing struggles faced by the native population due to historical injustices and land theft.
How is the Hawaiian community working towards cultural preservation and self-sustainability?
The Hawaiian community is actively working towards cultural preservation and self-sustainability through initiatives like cultural education in schools, land reclamation projects, and community-led efforts to address housing affordability issues. By focusing on reviving Hawaiian culture and language, reclaiming land for self-sustaining communities, and promoting education for future generations, Hawaiians are striving to lessen intergenerational trauma, preserve their heritage, and build a more sustainable future for their community.