key term - Hawaiian Language Movement

Definition

The Hawaiian Language Movement is a cultural and political effort aimed at revitalizing and preserving the Hawaiian language, which had experienced a significant decline due to colonial influences and the banning of Hawaiian in schools. This movement emphasizes the importance of language as a cornerstone of Hawaiian identity, culture, and heritage, promoting its use in education, media, and daily life to strengthen community bonds and cultural continuity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hawaiian Language Movement gained momentum in the 1970s as activists sought to reverse the effects of colonialism on the Hawaiian language and promote its use in schools and community settings.
2. Hawaiian immersion programs were established as part of the movement, allowing students to learn through the medium of Hawaiian, which has helped increase fluency among younger generations.
3. The movement has led to greater visibility and use of the Hawaiian language in public spaces, media, and governmental affairs, fostering pride among Native Hawaiians.
4. Legislation was passed in the 1980s that recognized Hawaiian as an official language of the state, paving the way for its inclusion in public education and services.
5. The resurgence of interest in Hawaiian culture has been closely tied to the language movement, as learning Hawaiian often leads individuals to explore other aspects of Hawaiian traditions and practices.

Review Questions

• How has the Hawaiian Language Movement influenced educational practices in Hawaii?
  • The Hawaiian Language Movement has significantly transformed educational practices by advocating for immersion programs that teach students in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. These programs have not only increased fluency among younger generations but also encouraged a deeper connection to Hawaiian culture. As a result, more schools are integrating Hawaiian language instruction into their curriculums, allowing students to learn about their heritage while improving their language skills.
• Evaluate the impact of legislative actions on the revitalization efforts of the Hawaiian Language Movement.
  • Legislative actions, particularly those recognizing Hawaiian as an official language in the 1980s, have had a profound impact on revitalization efforts. These laws have facilitated the inclusion of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi in public education and services, allowing for greater access to resources for learners. Furthermore, this recognition has helped validate the cultural significance of the language within Hawaii's society, fostering a supportive environment for continued growth and usage.
• Synthesize the relationship between cultural identity and language preservation within the context of the Hawaiian Language Movement.
  • The relationship between cultural identity and language preservation is deeply intertwined within the context of the Hawaiian Language Movement. The movement emphasizes that language is not just a means of communication but a vital component of cultural identity and heritage. By revitalizing ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, individuals are able to reclaim their cultural roots, engage with traditional practices, and strengthen community ties. This synthesis illustrates how language preservation efforts not only contribute to individual identity but also promote collective resilience among Native Hawaiians.

Related terms

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi:

The Hawaiian language, which is an official language of Hawaii alongside English and is central to the identity and cultural practices of the Native Hawaiian people.

Cultural Revitalization: The process of restoring and promoting cultural practices, languages, and identities that have been marginalized or suppressed, often in response to historical injustices.

Kamehameha Schools:

A private educational system in Hawaii founded in 1887 that serves Native Hawaiian students and plays a significant role in the revitalization of Hawaiian culture and language.