808 Urban

Kalae Tangonan led us through the mo'olelo and process as to how the remuraling project came to be. Many, many hands were involved in making this happen in so many ways, but the spirit and energy of Kala'e is what made it a reality! Mahalo nui!

Hauʻoli Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi! This February, we celebrate Hawaiian Language Month, a time to honor and uplift ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, all thanks to the legacy of Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani. Today, February 9, is her birthday, a perfect time to reflect on her impact and dedication to our language and culture.

Born in 1826, Ruth Keʻelikōlani was a high-ranking aliʻi known for her unwavering commitment to Hawaiian traditions. She remained a fierce protector of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, even as Western influence led to its decline. With the growing presence of missionaries and foreign governance, English was increasingly prioritized in schools, government, and business. By 1896, a law was passed banning Hawaiian as the primary language of education, pushing it further toward suppression. Despite these pressures, Keʻelikōlani continued to speak only Hawaiian, demonstrating its value and resilience. As a strong political leader and landowner, she used her wealth to support her people and later ensured that her lands would help fund Hawaiian education through what became Kamehameha Schools.

But today, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi thrives once again. Thanks to the dedication of language revitalization efforts, immersion schools, university programs, and community initiatives, the language is alive and growing. More people are learning, speaking, and embracing it in daily life. What once faced suppression is now a source of pride, connection, and identity.

Here’s a coloring page of Ruth Keʻelikōlani, colored with Waihoʻoluʻu, the first-ever ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi coloring pencil set. This set represents more than just colors; it’s a way to immerse keiki and kūpuna alike in our language through art, storytelling, and cultural pride. Sharing these tools and stories helps strengthen ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, ensuring that future generations continue to learn, speak, and live our language.

This is why we celebrate. This is why we share.

E ola ka ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi!