These kumu hula have worked tirelessly for decades to ensure that the kaona, knowledge and traditional practices shared by their mentors are passed on to the next generation.
Inspired by the World War II heroism of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the Japanese all-volunteer 442nd Regimental Combat Team, Stacey Hayashi spent thousands of hours interviewing veterans, then shared their stories in a comic book called “Journey of Heroes.” Illustrated by Bob’s Burgers artist Damon Wong, this 2012 publication won international acclaim and pushed Hayashi to her next project: finishing a feature-length film about the heroes.
According to the state Historic Preservation Division’s rules, plans made by the city and state to demolish the historic site can’t move forward until all viable alternatives have been ruled out.