ʻŌlelo of the Week: Makani – Hawaiian Word for Wind

The University of Hawaiʻi System is highlighting the meaning and usage of the Hawaiian word makani nui, which translates to strong wind. The initiative, part of the ongoing ʻŌlelo of the Week series, aims to promote and preserve the Hawaiian language.

The word was presented by Moanikeʻala Nabarro, from the Office of Communications at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The university encourages continued engagement with ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language), directing those interested to the UH Hilo Wehewehe Wikiwiki for further information on definitions and usage.

The ʻŌlelo of the Week series has also recently featured other Hawaiian words, including peni – meaning pen or pencil – and kūʻai, which translates to to buy or to barter. The university noted the timeliness of kūʻai as families prepare for the upcoming school year and purchase supplies.

The emphasis on language preservation comes at a critical juncture for the Hawaiian language. Following decades of suppression, particularly after the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi faced a significant decline. The overthrow, orchestrated with the support of American businessmen and the U.S. Military, led to the dismantling of the Hawaiian monarchy and the imposition of English as the primary language of instruction in schools. This policy effectively marginalized the Hawaiian language and culture for generations.

The consequences of this linguistic suppression were profound. By the mid-20th century, the number of native Hawaiian speakers had dwindled dramatically, with many children growing up without access to their ancestral language. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, a cultural revitalization movement began to gain momentum in the 1970s, spearheaded by dedicated educators, activists, and community leaders.

A key component of this revitalization effort was the establishment of Pūnana Leo (language nests) in the early 1980s. These immersion preschools provided a nurturing environment where children could learn and interact exclusively in Hawaiian. The success of the Pūnana Leo led to the creation of Kula Kaiapuni, Hawaiian language immersion schools that extend through the elementary and secondary levels.

The University of Hawaiʻi System’s ʻŌlelo of the Week initiative builds upon this broader movement to normalize and promote the use of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi in everyday life. By consistently sharing and explaining Hawaiian words, the university aims to increase awareness and encourage wider adoption of the language.

The choice of words like makani nui, peni, and kūʻai demonstrates a deliberate effort to connect the language to contemporary life. Rather than presenting Hawaiian as solely a language of the past, the university is showcasing its relevance and utility in the present. This approach is crucial for attracting new learners and fostering a sense of ownership among younger generations.

The revitalization of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi is not merely a linguistic exercise. It’s deeply intertwined with the broader struggle for Hawaiian sovereignty and cultural identity. Language is a powerful carrier of culture, history, and worldview. By reclaiming and revitalizing their language, Native Hawaiians are asserting their right to self-determination and preserving their unique cultural heritage.

The University of Hawaiʻi’s commitment to promoting ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi reflects a growing recognition of the importance of indigenous language revitalization efforts worldwide. Similar initiatives are underway in numerous countries, as communities seek to reclaim their linguistic and cultural heritage in the face of globalization and cultural homogenization.

Moanikeʻala Nabarro’s role in presenting these words underscores the university’s dedication to integrating Hawaiian language and culture into its institutional fabric. The ongoing ʻŌlelo of the Week series serves as a valuable resource for both native speakers and those interested in learning more about the Hawaiian language and its rich cultural significance.

The university encourages individuals to check back regularly for new installments of the ʻŌlelo of the Week, continuing the effort to keep the Hawaiian language alive and thriving for future generations. The initiative is a small but significant step towards a more inclusive and culturally vibrant Hawaiʻi.