Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 33, Number 5, 1 Mei 2016 — 150th Anniversary of the Royal Order Of Kamehameha [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

150th Anniversary of the Royal Order Of Kamehameha

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was honored to attend the recent Jubilee celebration of the 150th anniversary of the

Royal Order of Kamehameha in Wailea, Maui. This celebration was attended by many

notable leaders throughout our community — all dressed for the occasion. This evening reminded me of historical accounts of old days at 'Iolani Palaee when the celebrations would include the Royal Hawaiian Band with music that could be heard throughout central Honolulu. This wonderful milestone not only represents the strength of this Hawaiian organi-

zation, but also reminds us that the time of our ali'i isn't just a distant time that exists in history. The livelihood of this organization is an illustration of the fluidity and heahh of our culture, people, and plaee. The leadership

at the helm of the Royal Order of Kamehameha is an example to us all. Established in 1865 by Kamehameha V, Lot Kapuāiwa, the Royal Order of Kamehameha was founded to honor the legacy of Kamehameha I. This organization is dedicated to defending the sovereignty of Hawai'i, carrying out kuleana, uplifting kānaka, and upholding a number of Hawaiian values and characteristics. These characteristics include friendship, benevolenee, charity, leadership, good moral character, and physical heahh. The simple existence, let alone the success of the Royal Order of Kamehameha, with various ehapters throughout Hawai'i, is a figurehead of Hawaiian values and kuleana thriving in 2016. They bring to the forefront the ways of our ali'i, reminding us to adhere to the fundamental model illustrated in their presenee and work. Similarly, various other ali'i societies such as the 'Ahahui Ka'ahumanu and Hale o Nā Ali'i further encourage us to continue practicing our culture. The status, stature and widely-garnered respect for these organizations are a reminder of the effec-

tiveness of the core characteristics illustrated by our ali'i, kupuna, and people; one that is

still relevant and important today. Just like many other ali'i trusts, the foresight of Kamehameha V continues to benefit our people, even 150 years later. The intellect of our ali'i allowed them to adhere to traditional values, practices, and beliefs, while adapting to a changing society, working within a foreign structure and appropriating it to their own lāhui's benefit. This was a heavy kuleana for our ali'i, one they navigated successfully. This same kuleana continues

to exist today. As kānaka living in 2016, we have the same kuleana to uphold, mālama, and invest in the wellbeing of our lāhui through all avenues. This kuleana is increasingly i mp o r t a n t in Hawai'i's contemporary

society and equally as challenging. Personally, I believe that one of the avenues through whieh we solidify our voices is through voting. Whether we are encouraged and thankful to our elected officials or whether we are unhappy with the current leadership, we must vote. The Primary Election is scheduled for August 13 with the General Election taking plaee on November 8. Voting in Hawai'i has never been easier. Absentee voting allows you to cast your vote without having to leave the comfort of your own home. To register in person, visit your County Clerk's Office or go online to: www.elections.hawaii.gov to register. We must remember the examples already set forth for us in our ali'i and kupuna; honoring their foresight, drawing on the intellect of those who eame before us. Our kuleana to Hawai'i is a great burden, but also a great honor. I congratulate the leadership and members of the Royal Order of Kamehameha for 150 years of honoring Kamehameha and encourage us all to look to their example and follow in our ali'i's footsteps. ■

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Carmen "Hulu" Lindsey

Trustee, Maui

Honorees Al and Grace Spenser wilh Nāpua Greig Nakasone. - Photo: Courtesy