I ka ʻOhana ke Ola o ka ʻŌlelo: Family Is the Basis of Hawaiian Language Revitalization

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: The Power and Possibilities for the Indigenous Good: The Importance of Indigenous Research and Praxis 1

Abstract

The inextricably linked relationship among language, life, and death is one that resonates with many Indigenous peoples who have had their languages forcibly suppressed to the brink of language death. Reclaiming the inherent right to speak Hawaiian began with the “Hawaiian Renaissance” movement of the late 1970’s. A direct result of that struggle was the establishment of the Ka Papahana Kaiapuni (the Hawaiian Language Immersion Program).
The paper will offer a unique 30 year reflection on issues such as the possible misalignment of the goals of the program and the goals of the family; the politics of Immersion education, curriculum development, and the preparation of teachers.

Authors

• H Ka'umealani K Walk, University of Hawaii - Manoa

• R. Kamoaʻe Walk, University of Hawaii - Manoa