With Respect

 

ULUKAU is an online resource for the Hawaiian language, available to anyone, in Hawaiian and English.

I am writing this blog in the particular place of Hawai`i.  Pre-contact (before Captain Cook), the language of the Hawaiian people was oral.  In recent years, there has been a resurgence of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), in an effort to preserve and advance the culture.  The two languages -- Hawaiian and English -- are now the official languages here.

In addition, translation services are offered by most educational and state agencies, including the languages of Samoa, Chuuk, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Tonga, Marshall Islands, Japan, China, and Korea.

Though this blog will be primarily in English, I hope to respect both the Hawaiian culture, and all the cultures of those who have made this place their home.  This summer, I will begin learning the Hawaiian language in an academic setting (University of Hawai`i system).  Prior to this, I have been learning what I can from various sources, such as singing from the Na Himeni Haipule Hawaii.  I am privileged to serve as Pastor of Waipahu United Church of Christ, where we embrace the whole community, and make a home for churches and cultural programs.  So, I have been learning bits and pieces of other languages, too.