Hawaiian Independence Action Alliance members, under the watchful eye of Kahumoku Flores, celebrated the Queen’s birthday with her at Iolani Palace grounds near the ahu on Wednesday, Sept. 2. It was her 171st birthday, and an excellent time to reflect on her life and her struggle. The food was excellent (mahalo to those who brought mea ono to share), music outstanding (mahalo to Mana Caceres ma, Tane, Laulani, and Baron for bringing their instruments and voices!), talk uplifting (mahalo to everybody, including Palani Vaughn)! Work in the burial mound resulted in a neat and well-cared for landscape, but also a good deal of reflection and expressions of commitment by those whose hands stripped yellow leaves or pulled weeds. Ku Ching found his great (8 times removed) grandfather at Pohukaina, and his grandfather found him! Mahalo to Kealaula for the opening chant.
Some photos are posted below.
