#Edith Kanakaʻole

Esteemed kumu hula Nālani Kanakaʻole, whose life’s work transformed Native Hawaiian cultural traditions globally, was honored in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony, underscoring her far-reaching influence in hula and Hawaiian values.

Specific Native Hawaiian women spotlighted in the resolution included: Queen Ka‘ahumanu, Isabella Kauakea Yau Yung Aiona Abbott, Mary Kawena Pukui, Edith Kenao Kanaka‘ole, Rell Kapolioka‘ehukai Sunn, and Emma Ka‘ilikapuolono Metcalf Beckley Nakuina.

The “He Kaʻao No Aunty Edith Kanakaʻole” celebration starts at 10:30 a.m. with a welcoming ceremony in the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center in Hilo on the Big Island followed by a ceremonial presentation of gifts and tributes.

Edith Kekuhikuhipuʻuoneonāaliʻiōkohala Kenao Kanakaʻole, Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett and Jerald Kimo Alama Keaulana were each awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at the April 20 meeting of the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents.