VIDEO: “Lei For Paris” Delivered to Memorial Sites, Hospitals

*Video Credit: Timothy Lara / VO & Report by Wendy Osher

Members of a Maui delegation spent the last week delivering a “Lei for Paris” to memorial sites and hospitals of those affected by recent acts of terrorism.

The lei project was launched by the Cynthia Rose Foundation, and is made up of eight sections of ti-leaf woven over the course of four days by volunteers.  Combined, the sections stretch a total of one mile.

Their work to spread the spirit of aloha was offered, “to remind the world of the existence and power of kindness, love and aloha.” Organizers say it will stand, “as a bright light to overpower the negativity in the world today.”

Lei for Paris. Photo credit: Timothy Lara.

A small delegation of emerging youth leaders joined members of the Cynthia Rose Foundation in presenting the lei at various events and locations in Paris during their trip to the United Nations COP21 Negotiations.

Among those in Paris are: Ron Panzo, Tim Lara and Sherrie Austin, who together visited memorial sites. The youth delegation includes five emerging young leaders: Koʻi Lum of Waiehu; Nameaaea Hoshino of Lahaina; Kailea Frederick of Kula; Taimiroa Pajimola of Haʻikū; and Honu Lafitaga of Haʻikū.

One of the eight-mile sections was left at Bataclan and Salle a L `etage.  Youth leaders from Maui joined the group in presenting sections of the lei earlier this week at Palace De Republic, the main memorial site, and another segment at Bataclan.

Lei for Paris. Photo credit: Timothy Lara.

Organizers said they hoped to leave sections of the lei at the three hospitals where survivors are still recovering.

The youth group is attending the negotiations in the hopes of ensuring that indigenous youth voices are heard throughout global conversations on climate change.  Each member is currently engaged in protection of the ‘āina of Maui.

The group’s GoFundMe bio states, “We view this journey as a way to create long-lasting relationships with international and indigenous leaders and build a bridge of mutual support between caretakers and protectors of culture and the environment in Hawai`i and the rest of the world.”

Upon their return to Maui, the youth delegation plans to bring back what they learned to inspire, inform and “activate families, friends and associates toward greater love and care for the earth in practical and effective ways.”