Saving The Language
Hawaiian is not only an essential part of the state’s history and culture, but it is also a central language in the Hawaiian Islands. However, the language is currently endangered, with few people speaking it fluently. To save the Hawaiian language, we must work to preserve it through education and awareness. By teaching future generations the importance of Hawaiian, we can help to ensure that the language does not become extinct. The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) has taken steps to make this happen by providing Hawaiian as a second language for all students.
Several HIDOE programs are dedicated to preserving the native languages. Additionally, ʻAha Pūnana Leo teaches parents how to teach their children Hawaiian at home so they can keep up with their peers in Hawaiian school who are being taught at least one hour per day. What’s more, there are many blogs and websites dedicated to sharing information about the language, as well as online courses which have been developed over time. These efforts have helped increase knowledge about Hawaiiana’s preservation across North America.
Hawaiian Language Preservation
In Hawaii, the preservation of Polynesian languages, particularly ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, holds significance for the Hawaiian population. While public schools often serve as platforms for language education, Hawaiian immersion schools play a pivotal role in nurturing the oral language among native people.
Despite English being the official state language, efforts are made to honor the cultural heritage through language programs. Private schools, influenced by the legacy of Christian missionaries, also contribute to the perpetuation of Polynesian languages, reflecting a commitment to sustaining linguistic diversity and cultural identity in Hawaii.
The statewide population of Hawaii encompasses a diverse array of cultural influences, with a significant native population rooted in the islands’ history. The arrival of Captain James Cook marked a turning point, leading to profound changes in the Hawaiian monarchy and the cultural landscape. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs, established after a constitutional convention, plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and welfare of native Hawaiians.
Despite historical challenges, common languages, including American languages, have flourished, with fluent speakers contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage. The interchangeable variants within the linguistic fabric reflect the dynamic evolution of Hawaii’s cultural tapestry over the centuries.
The Importance of Revitalization
In the United States, there are currently over 190 endangered languages. Of these, Hawaiian is among the most endangered, with only about 2,000 speakers remaining. Hawaiian is not only a beautiful language, but it is also a critical part of the state’s culture and history. While there are many factors contributing to the decline of Hawaiian, we believe that it is essential to try to save this language from extinction. We hope that by revitalizing the language, future generations will be able to learn more about Hawai’i and its rich cultural heritage.
For example, it would allow people in the US who identify as Hawaiian or Pacific Islander to connect with their roots. For those in Hawai’i who do not speak English or have a limited understanding of the language, revitalization would help them better understand their own home and identity. In addition, children growing up today would be able to have meaningful interactions with elders by speaking Hawaiian. Revitalizing a language is difficult and time-consuming; however, the benefits can last for generations.