Haunani Trask
Artist and Social Activist, Hawaiian Studies
“The imperialist decides that history begins when they arrive, and so therefore, that’s why movements are absolutely imperative. I think that it’s true that movements come and go. As we age, the next generation either has to pick it up, or do something else. You need to see young people because it’s young people continuing the work.”
Biography
Revitalization of Hawaiian culture has been an arduous journey, supported along the way by many notable figures. One such of these is Haunani-Kay Trask, acclaimed to be “the most prominent and influential indigenous Hawaiian scholar of the 20th century and beginning of the 21st century.” Growing up on the Ko’olau side of the island of O’ahu, Trask was surrounded at an early age by politically active relatives. This influence was the start of her future as an activist, ranging from her strong support of feminism in the 1970s and transitioning to her focus on the modern Hawaiian movement. Prominently credited with co-founding the contemporary field of Hawaiian studies, Trask has tirelessly battled against gender and racial biases, establishing the Gladys Brandt Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, and subsequently securing a position as director of the Center for Hawaiian Studies. She recently was awarded the 2019 Angela Y. Davis Prize by the American Studies Association (ASA), for her efforts in education, addressing inequalities, and work for the public good.
Photo Credits
“`Iolani Palace” by Cliff, used under CC BY 2.0
Karl Lehmann / Lonely Planet Image