Hawaiian Civic Clubs Host 50th Annual Convention on Maui

The Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs holds its 50^th Annual Convention on Maui November 1-8 at the Makena Beach and Golf Resort.  Speakers will address the challenges and opportunities of balancing Hawaii’s economic development and cultural sustainability.  The AHCC is the oldest Hawaiian community based grassroots organization and is dedicated to civic service in the Native Hawaiian community.

Image courtesy: Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs

The theme of this year’s event, Aloha ‘Ä€ina, speaks of the love for the land and respect for ancestors.

Among the list of Keynote Speakers are Dr. Noa Emmett Aluli, who will share the work of the Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission and the sacrifices made for the survival of the island and the spirit of the Native Hawaiian.  Office of Hawaiian Affairs Administrator Clyde Namuo will update attendees on the critical issues facing the Hawaiian community and OHA initiatives.  And a host of other guest speakers will be on hand for break out sessions throughout the week.

Three taro farmers, Jim Cain, Waipio Valley; Jerry Konanui, Kauai; and Ke’eaumoku Kapu, Maui have devoted their lives to the sustainment and cultivation of taro.  They share with us the important work of the Taro Security and Purity Task Force and of its recommendations on Wednesday November 4 from 9-10 a.m. at the Kahili Court.

The topic of contemporary activism comes to light as three leaders in the community discuss the kuleana of Native Hawaiians in fulfilling their obligations as envisioned by the kumulipo in the face of a contemporary society and new methods for generating energy for our island community…two from the perspective of managing large tracts of land by their organization, one from the perspective of the land and its relationship to the health of our people.  The Panel includes: Neil Hannahs, Director of Land Assets Division Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate; Kaulana Park, Chair, Hawaiian Homes Commission, Dept of  Hawaiian Home Lands; and Hardy Spoehr, Executive Director, Papa Ola Lōkahi. The discussion gets underway at 8:10 a.m. at the Plenary on Friday, November 6, 2009.

Welcoming remarks will be made by U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka, America’s first Senator of Native Hawaiian ancestry.  Additional remarks will also be made by Lt. Governor James “Duke” Aiona, Jr., Representative Mele Carroll and Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares.

For a complete list of Convention activities, click on the following link: to the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs.

(Posted by Wendy Osher)