It was a very mellow afternoon at the Palace on Wednesday, Sept. 2. About 40-50 people stopped by throughout the day, with 20 or so staying until the evening. We had tons of food, but by the end of the day, most of it had been consumed. No one went home hungry, so definitely a good party!
The only downside was the removal of the tent covering the table with the Queen’s portraits by state law enforcement officers. They had reminded us earlier of DLNR’s rules prohibiting the setting up of tents in the area. This tent protected the Queen (via her portraits) from the elements, a sign of respect to the Queen and common sense. DLNR’s rules purport to regulate cultural practice, but their hardline reminded us all that the point of cultural practice is to honor those who came before by celebrating their lives and honoring their memories, not as the rules permit, but as culture dictates. Cultural practice existed long before those rules were put into place. They’ll continue to exist, with or without some foreign entity determining how they should be carried out.
We did get photos and video footage of the event, including the taking down of the tent (which the cops took away) and the issuing of a summons to Kahumoku to appear in court/pay a fine. The cops really looked silly. Maybe one day they’ll be on our side and protest stupid rules that make them look silly. I also heard that Laura Thielen was there, hiding behind some building and making sure the cops did their job! Photos are posted below. When the footage makes its way to youtube, I will post the link.
But other than that, it was all good! Hauoli La Hanau o Liliuokalani!
