“Disney created a “princess” that could be representative of many different island people. Though they pulled inspiration from a variety of specific cultures, it is not just a Hawaiian story, a Samoan story or a Maori story. It is a Polynesian story that many people can insert themselves into. Moana is all of us.”
Two Pacific Islanders are among the nominees for the 59th annual Grammy Awards! “E Walea” by Kalani Pe’a earned a nomination for Best Regional Roots Music Album, and “Rose Petals” by J Boog has been nominated for Best Reggae Album.
“In most social settings I was the Hawaiian girl with the hard-to-pronounce last name, a fish in the water, played volleyball, had thick legs, and loved poi and Spam. But at home with my family I was the haole kid with fair skin and freckles who didn’t speak pidgin…”
This year was life-changing. But to be fair, every year is life-changing. Every moment has an impact – whether minimal or monumental, superficial or profound. One moment, in particular, happened for me a couple of… [Continue Reading]
The complete version of the 2016 Merrie Monarch Festival is now available for purchase through Island Heritage! The 4-disc DVD Set includes over 10 hours of footage, featuring the Merrie Monarch Festival in its entirety, Miss Aloha Hula competition, interviews and the awards presentation.
It may not be a winter wonderland in Hawaii Nei (our beloved Hawaii) come the holiday season, but we sure have the merry and bright spirit! If you’re looking at your gift-giving list and considering… [Continue Reading]