Hawaiian Language Revival

Definition

Hawaiian Language Revival refers to the movement aimed at revitalizing the Hawaiian language, which was suppressed during periods of colonization and Americanization. This effort seeks to restore the use of Hawaiian in everyday life, education, and cultural practices, fostering a sense of identity and connection among native Hawaiians.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hawaiian language faced significant decline after the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 and the subsequent annexation by the United States.
2. In the 1970s, the Hawaiian language revival movement gained momentum, leading to the establishment of language immersion schools and programs.
3. The use of Hawaiian in government and media has increased due to advocacy efforts, with Hawaiian being taught in public schools and used in official communications.
4. The movement has been supported by legislation, including the establishment of Hawaiian as an official language of the state of Hawaii in 1978.
5. Cultural events, such as hula festivals and language competitions, play an essential role in promoting the use and appreciation of the Hawaiian language within the community.

Review Questions

• How did historical events contribute to the decline of the Hawaiian language before the revival movement?
  • The decline of the Hawaiian language was largely due to colonization and Americanization efforts that began with the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893. During this time, English was promoted as the primary language for education and government, leading to a significant decrease in native speakers. The suppression of Hawaiian culture also played a role, as traditional practices that utilized the language were discouraged or banned, resulting in a loss of linguistic heritage over generations.
• Evaluate the impact of immersion schools on the success of the Hawaiian language revival movement.
  • Language immersion schools have been pivotal to the Hawaiian language revival movement by providing a structured environment where students can learn and use Hawaiian in everyday contexts. These schools not only teach language skills but also incorporate cultural lessons that foster pride and connection to Hawaiian heritage. The success of these programs is evident in increased fluency among younger generations, contributing to a renewed interest in using Hawaiian within families and communities.
• Assess how government policies have shaped the current status of the Hawaiian language in contemporary society.
  • Government policies have played a crucial role in shaping the current status of the Hawaiian language by providing legal recognition and support for its use. Following its designation as an official language in 1978, various initiatives were launched to promote Hawaiian in public life, education, and media. This has led to greater visibility of the language and increased opportunities for learning it. Furthermore, policies encouraging bilingual education have helped integrate Hawaiian into school curriculums, enhancing its relevance for new generations while helping preserve it for future use.

Related terms

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: The native language of Hawaii, which is an official language alongside English and plays a crucial role in Hawaiian identity and culture.

Language Immersion Schools: Educational institutions that teach students primarily in the Hawaiian language, aiming to increase fluency and cultural knowledge among young generations.

Cultural Revitalization: The process of restoring and promoting traditional practices, languages, and identities within indigenous communities, often intertwined with language revival efforts.