(Re)weaving intimacies with 'Āina for our past, present, and future

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Studies
• Environmental Humanities
• Decolonial Studies

Background:

• Colonial systems have historically disrupted the intrinsic relationship between Kanaka 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiians) and 'āina (land).
• This severance has undermined Indigenous flourishing and community wellness, impacting generations.
• Understanding these historical disruptions is crucial for addressing contemporary Indigenous issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the historical trajectory of 'āina relationships for Kanaka 'Ōiwi.
• To examine the impact of colonial disruption on Indigenous epistemologies and practices.
• To highlight contemporary revitalization efforts and envision future possibilities for Indigenous autonomy and liberation.

Main Methods:

• Drawing on diverse Indigenous knowledge systems, including mo'olelo (history, lore), 'ōlelo no'eau (Hawaiian proverbs), and mele (chants, songs).
• Integrating scholarly research to analyze colonial disruptions and Indigenous revitalization initiatives.
• Employing a decolonial framework to understand land-water-people relationships.

Main Results:

• Ancestral Kanaka 'Ōiwi epistemologies are rooted in reciprocal relationships with 'āina, sustained through embodied learning and place-based practices.
• Colonization systematically dismantled these connections, leading to a loss of Indigenous knowledge and well-being.
• Contemporary initiatives are actively reclaiming and revitalizing these vital relationships.

Conclusions:

• Honoring Kanaka 'Ōiwi epistemologies and returning land and water to community control are essential for Indigenous liberation.
• Restored intimacies with 'āina offer a pathway toward thriving, moving beyond mere resilience to ongoing harm.
• The future of Kanaka 'Ōiwi well-being is intrinsically linked to the revitalization of their ancestral relationship with 'āina.