Hawaiian language revival

Definition

The Hawaiian language revival refers to the efforts aimed at revitalizing and promoting the use of the Hawaiian language, which faced significant decline due to colonization and cultural assimilation. These initiatives focus on increasing fluency among speakers, integrating the language into educational systems, and fostering pride in Hawaiian culture and heritage. The revival is a critical part of broader movements for cultural preservation and autonomy among Native Hawaiians.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hawaiian language experienced a severe decline during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to colonial policies that discouraged its use in schools and public life.
2. The Hawaiian Language Immersion Program began in the late 1980s, allowing children to be educated primarily in Hawaiian, significantly increasing the number of fluent speakers.
3. Cultural events, such as hula and music festivals, are often used to promote the Hawaiian language and create community engagement.
4. Legislation in the 1970s recognized Hawaiian as an official state language, paving the way for its inclusion in public education and media.
5. The revival efforts have been supported by grassroots organizations and collaborations with universities, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and community resilience.

Review Questions

• How have language immersion programs contributed to the revival of the Hawaiian language?
  • Language immersion programs have played a significant role in revitalizing the Hawaiian language by providing an educational environment where children learn primarily in Hawaiian. These programs not only teach students the language but also immerse them in Hawaiian culture and traditions. As a result, they help increase fluency and encourage pride in cultural heritage, fostering a new generation of speakers.
• Discuss the impact of colonial policies on the Hawaiian language and how these policies influenced revival efforts.
  • Colonial policies had a detrimental impact on the Hawaiian language, leading to its decline as English was promoted as the primary language in schools and government. This suppression resulted in fewer fluent speakers and diminished cultural practices tied to the language. The revival efforts are a direct response to this historical injustice, aiming to restore not just the language but also cultural identity, through education and community initiatives.
• Evaluate the significance of grassroots movements in supporting the Hawaiian language revival within contemporary society.
  • Grassroots movements have been crucial in supporting the Hawaiian language revival by mobilizing community members and raising awareness about cultural preservation. These movements advocate for policy changes that promote Hawaiian in public life and educational settings. By emphasizing community engagement and collaboration with institutions, they create a supportive network that fosters pride in Hawaiian identity, which is essential for sustaining long-term revitalization efforts.

Related terms

Kānaka Maoli: The indigenous people of Hawaii, often referred to as Native Hawaiians, who have a strong cultural connection to the Hawaiian language and traditions.

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: The Hawaiian language, which is an official language of Hawaii alongside English and is integral to Hawaiian identity and culture.

Language immersion programs: Educational programs designed to teach students a second language by immersing them in that language, often used in the context of teaching Hawaiian to new generations.