From keiki to kupuna, participants of the Onipaa Peace March – which commemorates the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii on Jan. 17, 1893 - made their way from Maunaala Royal Mausoleum to Iolani Palace on Friday, spanning about 1.8 miles.
Live entertainment, speeches, food, educational booths and activities were coordinated by nonprofit Mutual Aid Ka Lahui, which aims "to provide frontline disaster aid and support sustainable community efforts to be self-sufficient," per its website. Organizers said thousands were in attendance, with a good showing from 18 schools, whose K-12 students entered into a T-shirt design contest.
"The Onipaa Peace March invites everyone who calls Hawaii home to join in this significant day of reflection and solidarity," the nonprofit said on Facebook. "Together, we honor the struggles of our ancestors and steadfastly envision a future rooted in Aloha Aina."
The Friends of Iolani Palace Executive Director Paula Akana told Aloha State Daily Friday afternoon, "Things are going good. This year was very peaceful." Akana said the Palace served only as a venue; Mutual Aid Ka Lahui secured permits to host the event on state lands.
Gifts and offerings were made at Queen Liliʻuokalani statue led by The Queen’s Court. Sean Na‘auao kicked off musical entertainment, which ran until about 4 p.m. Other artists included The Vitals 808, LionFiyah and more.
Featured organizations included Wisdom Circles Oceania, Ka Makani Kaili Koa, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, among others.
For the full schedule of events, click here.
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
