Each year on March 26, Hawai’i pays homage to one of its most esteemed alii, Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana’ole, know affectionately as “Ke Aliʻi o ka Lāhui” (The Prince of the People).
This day is not just a public holiday; it’s a celebration of a legacy that has shaped our islands’ past, present, and future.
For kamaʻāina (locals) and malihini (visitors) alike, understanding who Prince Kūhiō was, his monumental contributions, and how his spirit endures today offers a deeper connection to the rich moʻolelo (story, history) and culture of Hawaiʻi.
Who Was Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana’ole?
Born in 1871, Prince Kūhiō was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawai’i and later a delegate to the United States Congress. A descendant of King Kaumuali’i of Kauai, he was in line for the throne at the time of the kingdom’s overthrow in 1893.
Beyond his political achievements, Prince Kūhiō was also known for his deep pilina (relationship) with the kai (ocean), embodying the spirit of aloha through his passion for heʻenalu (surfing), a pastime he enjoyed alongside legendary surfers like Duke Kahanamoku.
A Champion for Native Hawaiians
Often referred to as the Citizen Prince or Prince of the People, Prince Kūhiō dedicated his life to bettering the conditions of his people and preserving Hawaiian culture in a rapidly changing world.
His most significant legislative accomplishment was the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1921, which provided homestead lands for Native Hawaiians to live on and cultivate. It was a pivotal effort in preserving Hawaiian culture and ensuring the welfare of Hawaiʻi’s kanaka maoli (indigenous people), a legacy that profoundly impacts lives today.
Legacy Living On
Prince Kūhiō’s legacy is evident across the Hawaiian Islands but particularly resonant on Oahu. Each year, the Prince Kūhiō Parade in Waikīkī celebrates his life and contributions.
For those looking to explore Prince Kūhiō’s history further, Oahu offers several sites significant to his life and legacy:
- Prince Kūhiō Statue in Waikīkī: Situated in Prince Kūhiō Park, this statue is a popular site for commemorations on Prince Kūhiō Day. The park itself is a serene spot that offers insight into the prince’s dedication to his people.
- Royal Mausoleum State Monument (Mauna ʻAla): As the final resting place of Prince Kūhiō and other members of Hawaii’s royal families, Mauna ʻAla in Honolulu offers a deeply moving glimpse into the history and reverence for Hawai’i’s monarchy.
A great way to support Prince Kūhiō’s efforts is to look for businesses owned by Native Hawaiians, especially those that operate in line with traditional practices and sustainability. This could include farms, artisan shops, and restaurants that source locally. Supporting these businesses helps to sustain the local economy and the preservation of Hawaiian culture.
The Cultural Renaissance Inspired by Prince Kūhiō
Beyond the significant sites linked to his legacy, Prince Kūhiō’s profound dedication to the Hawaiian people has ignited a cultural renaissance, fostering a resurgence of interest and pride in Hawaiian heritage, language, and traditions. This revival is celebrated across schools, by cultural practitioners, and within communities throughout Oahu and beyond, as they continue to honor his vision by nurturing a vibrant, living Hawaiian culture.
In 2024, this legacy is brought to the forefront with the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs presenting the Prince Kūhiō Parade, one of the four legacy parades recognized by the State of Hawaiʻi. Scheduled for Saturday, March 16, 2024, starting at 5:00 PM, the parade will take place in Kapolei, which boasts the largest concentration of Hawaiian homesteads in the state. The event promises to be a grand celebration of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole’s life and contributions, featuring over 100 participating units and anticipating more than 15,000 spectators. The parade route will extend from Kapolei Hale, down Kapolei Parkway, and conclude at Ka Makana Aliʻi Shopping Center.
For both visitors and locals, engaging with the parade and exploring the sites connected to Prince Kūhiō on Oahu presents a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. As we honor his life and contributions, we also celebrate the resilience and spirit of the Hawaiian people.
Prince Kūhiō’s vision for a thriving, culturally rich Hawai’i lives on, inviting all to learn, respect, and participate in this ongoing journey of celebration and remembrance.