Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 39, Number 6, 1 Iune 2022 — 156th Anniversary of the Royal Order of Kamehameha [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

156th Anniversary of the Royal Order of Kamehameha

J LEO 'ELELE V_ ^ TRUSTEE MESSAGES *

Iwas honored to attend the last Jubilee celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Royal Order of Kamehameha in Wailea, Maui, in 2016. The celebration was attended by many notable leaders throughout our community - all dressed for the occasion. The evening reminded me of historical accounts of eelebrations at 'Iolani Palaee when the festivities would include

music by the Royal Hawaiian Band that could be heard throughout downwtown Honolulu. This wonderful annual milestone not only represents the strength of this distinguished Hawaiian organization, but also reminds us that the time of our ali'i isn't just a distant memory that exists only in history. The vibrancy of this organization exemplifies the fluidity and heahh of our culture, people, and plaee. Established in 1865 by Kamehameha V, Lot Kapuāiwa, the Royal Order of Kamehameha was founded to honor the legacy of Kamehameha I. The organization is dedicated to defending the sovereignty of Hawai'i, carrying out the kuleana to uplift Kānaka Maoli, and uphold Hawaiian values and characteristics such as ffiendship, benevolence, charity, leadership, good moral character, and physical heahh. The simple existence, let alone the success, of the Royal Order of Kamehameha with its various chapters throughout Hawai'i, is an example of Hawaiian values and kuleana thriving in 2022. They bring to the forefront the ways of our ali'i and remind us to adhere to the fundamental model demonstrated by their presence and work. Similarly, other ali'i societies such as the 'Ahahui Ka'ahumanu and Hale o Nā Ali'i also encourage us to continue practicing our culture. The status, stature and respect afforded to these organizations are a testament to the importance of the core characteristics embodied by our ali'i, kūpuna, and people; characteristics that are still relevant and important today.

Just like many other ali'i trusts, the foresight of Kamehameha V continues to benefit our people, even 156 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 2022, we have the same kuleana to uphold, mālama, and invest in the wellbeing of our lāhui through all avenues. This kuleana is increasingly important 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 ofhcials 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. Every registered voter in Hawai'i automatically receives a ballot in the mail, in accordance with an all-mail election state law that went into effect in 2020. Mail-in ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on the primary and general election dates. Mail-in 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 by our ali'i and kūpuna; 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 156 years of honoring Kamehameha and encourage us all to look to their example and follow in our ali'i's footsteps. ■

Carmen "Hulu" Lindsey Chair, Trustee, Maui