What does ‘A’ali’ikūmakani mean? Why did we pick that name?
The ʻAʻaliʻikūmakani inoa draws its inspiration from the ʻōlelo noʻeau, “He ʻaʻaliʻi kū makani mai au; ʻaʻohe makani nāna e kūlaʻi” (I am a wind-resisting ʻaʻaliʻi; no gale can push me over).
The ‘a‘ali‘i shrub, native to Hawai‘i, embodies resilience and adaptability, thriving in diverse environments from coastal regions to upland forests. Known for its hardiness, the ‘a‘ali‘i is often one of the first plants introduced in ecological restoration efforts. Its deep roots stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and fostering the conditions necessary for other native plants to take hold and flourish. This pioneering role of the ‘a‘ali‘i is essential for reviving and restoring the ‘āina, paving the way for the growth of lush, vibrant forests that sustain both the ecosystem and the cultural heritage of kānaka ‘ōiwi.
In the context of Alumni, the ‘a‘ali‘i serves as a powerful metaphor. Just as the shrub lays the groundwork for future ecological growth, Kamehameha Alumni cultivate the foundations for their ‘ohana, kaiāulu, and lāhui through demonstrations of ʻōiwi leadership. For Hawaiians and non–Hawaiians alike. Their efforts, rooted in resilience and adaptability, activate ea, life/breath/rising/sovereignty, promoting a flourishing, self-sustaining society. By weaving the symbolism of the ‘a‘ali‘i into the narrative of ‘ōiwi leadership, we underscore the importance of its role in cultivating conditions that improve the well-being of others around it, resilience, foundational growth, and the interconnectedness of all facets of life. Ea mai Hawai‘i.
