Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day is a state holiday in Hawaiʻi, honors Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole, a prominent Hawaiian royal member and statesman who played a key role in preserving Native Hawaiian culture and advocating for their rights during a pivotal time in Hawaiʻi's history.

Table of Contents

1. When is Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day?
2. The History of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. Who is Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole?

When is Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day?

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day is observed annually on March 26 in the state of Hawaiʻi to commemorate the birth of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole on March 26, 1871.

The History of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day?

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day is a state holiday in Hawaiʻi. The day celebrates his legacy as a royal statesman, advocate for Native Hawaiian rights, and a leader who worked tirelessly to preserve Hawaiian culture and heritage following the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day was established as a state holiday in Hawaiʻi in 1949 to honor Kūhiō's contributions to Native Hawaiians and his enduring influence on the state's cultural and political history.

The date reflects Kūhiō's birthday, symbolizing his dedication to improving the lives of Hawaiians and ensuring their voice in governance.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day, people in Hawaiʻi honor the legacy of the "Citizen Prince" with a variety of activities and celebrations that reflect his contributions to Native Hawaiian rights, culture, and heritage.

Traditional Hawaiian hula dances are performed to celebrate Kūhiō's dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture. Some communities hold parades showcasing Hawaiian culture, including floats, musicians, and dancers in traditional attire.

Schools and cultural organizations host discussions and presentations about Kūhiō's life and his impact on Native Hawaiian rights.

Community leaders and Native Hawaiian groups hold ceremonies to honor Kūhiō's legacy and reflect on his impact. Wreath-laying ceremonies or gatherings at places associated with Kūhiō's life are common.

Inspired by Kūhiō's commitment to helping others, some people participate in volunteer activities like environmental cleanups or projects that benefit the Native Hawaiian community.

Hawaiian cultural centers host exhibitions, showcasing artifacts and historical records related to Kūhiō and his contributions.

Who is Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole?

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole (March 26, 1871 – January 7, 1922) was a Hawaiian prince, politician, and advocate for Native Hawaiian rights. He is remembered for his significant contributions to preserving Hawaiian culture and improving the social and economic conditions of Native Hawaiians after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.

He was born on March 26, 1871, in Kōloa, Kauaʻi. Kūhiō was a member of the Hawaiian royal family, part of the House of Kalākaua. His parents were High Chief David Kahalepouli Piʻikoi and Princess Kinoiki Kekaulike. He was adopted by King Kalākaua and Queen Kapiʻolani after his father's death, making him a prince of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Kūhiō was educated in Hawaiʻi, California, and abroad, including studies in Japan and England. His exposure to various cultures and political systems influenced his later work.

As a Delegate to the U.S. Congress from 1903 to 1922, Kūhiō spearheaded the passage of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. This landmark legislation set aside land for Native Hawaiian homesteads, aimed at addressing economic challenges and preserving cultural ties to the land.

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole passed away on January 7, 1922, at the age of 50, in Waikīkī, Hawaiʻi. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to improving the welfare of Native Hawaiians and preserving their cultural heritage.