Today, like generations before us, we are called to stand firm for our lāhui.
The challenges being raised against Kamehameha Schools’ admissions policy are more than legal debates – they strike at the heart of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop’s vision and the future of our lāhui.
Kamehameha Schools was established through the provisions of Princess Pauahi’s will to uplift her people. At a time when Hawaiians were struggling, she used her resources to ensure our people had a future through education. She knew that knowledge was the key to survival and self-determination.
For nearly 140 years, her legacy has given generations of Hawaiian children the opportunity to thrive in school and in life.
As a proud 13-year student and graduate of the Class of 2002, my time at Kamehameha was where I learned that education is the key to our survival and success. From the children’s choir to football and concert glee, I was shaped by the daily practice of core values.
It was my kumu and mentors who truly brought these values to life, providing us with incredible examples of leadership and compassion. Lessons in steadfast conviction, enduring perseverance, and collective unity weren’t just taught, they were lived.
That strong foundation, built on my own sense of kuleana, prepared me for a life dedicated to our lāhui and culture, just as Ke Aliʻi Pauahi intended.
The admissions preference for Native Hawaiians is central to that legacy. It’s not about turning others away, but about restoring balance and providing opportunities for our people to rise.
Because the struggle to protect this policy continues, its dismantling could jeopardize programs that serve our people across Hawaiʻi – including scholarships, health and housing initiatives, and cultural preservation efforts. This is bigger than one school; it is about the right of Hawaiians to care for Hawaiians.
At OHA, we understand what is at stake. Our mission is to improve the wellbeing of our people. Supporting Kamehameha Schools in this fight is a natural extension of that kuleana.
When one of our most important institutions is threatened, we must stand alongside them. This is a moment for unity, for our lāhui and our allies to come together and speak with one voice. We must share Pauahi’s story and remind others that true equity for our lāhui requires more than words – it requires bold action.
For over a century, Kamehameha Schools has been the embodiment of that action. Its graduates serve Hawaiʻi in every field, from teachers and doctors to cultural leaders and advocates, strengthening all who call these islands home. Our alumni are building a stronger, more resilient Hawaiʻi. Protecting the admissions policy safeguards an institution that uplifts our entire state.
As vice chair of OHA, I am committed to supporting policies that uphold the vision of our aliʻi and protect our lāhui.
We stand here today because Pauahi gave us a gift meant to endure for generations. It is our kuleana to honor that gift and ensure it remains for the keiki yet to come. With our deepest mahalo to our beloved Ke Aliʻi Pauahi, let’s stand together to protect her vision.
E ola Pauahi, E ola Hawaiʻi!
