March 19, 2018
Kamehameha Schools recently hosted the two-day “18th Annual Tribute to Kamehameha III – a Birthday Celebration for Ka Lani Kauikeaouli" at his birthplace, Keauhou Bay.
The theme of the event, “He Aupuni Palapala Ko‘u,” honors the same declaration by Kamehameha III, born Kauikeaouli, in support of literacy and education.
“Kauikeaouli was a progressive ali‘i who placed great value on the importance of education – so much so that his government provided free public education for all children,” West Hawai‘i Regional Director Kaimana Barcarse said. “With this event, we honor his foresight and wisdom and the role he played in working to lift all of Hawai‘i."
The Daughters of Hawai‘i, Royal Order of Kamehameha and Kamehameha Schools paid tribute to the visionary ali‘i at a special ceremony on Friday, March 16, at Keauhou Bay. That evening, voyagers Chadd ‘Onohi Paishon and Mike Manu of the West Hawai‘i non-profit Nā Kālai Wa‘a presented “Hanauna Ola… Sustaining the Generations Through Voyaging" at a public lecture.
On Saturday, March 17, a free ‘aha mele supporting Nā Kālai Wa‘a, which is dedicated to the maintenance of cultural values and customs through the teaching and application of non-instrument navigation and open-ocean voyaging, was held on the lawn at the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. Performers included ‘Ekolu Mea Nui, Kainani Kahaunaele, Hammah-Jang & Special Guest Brother Noland, BAMBU, Keali‘i Bertelmann and ‘Ohana and Kumu Hula Pua Case and Hālau Ke‘alaonamaupua.
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
