"Waves of Resistance" - Surfing has been a significant sport and cultural practice in Hawaii for hundreds of years. While our moolelo record many ancient surfing stories, hee nalu endured throughout the mid and late 1900s when it was popularized by kanaka like Jonah Kuhio, Victoria Kaiulani, George Freeth and Duke Kahanamoku. In the last century, facing increased marginalization on land, many Native Hawaiians have found refuge, autonomy, and identity in the waves. In Waves of Resistance Isaiah Walker explains that throughout the twentieth century Hawaiian surfers have successfully resisted colonial encroachment in the poina nalu (surf zone). Through such histories of resistance, Walker also explores topics of media misrepresentation, masculinity, and contemporary surfing identities.
Dr. Isaiah Walker is a Professor of History at Brigham Young University-Hawaii where he teaches Hawaiian and World History. He specializes in the history of hee nalu and argues that the poina nalu (surf zone) has been a kind of puuhonua for Hawaiians over the last 200 years. He also contends that Hawaiian surfers played a critical role in resistance to colonialism since the occupation of the Hawaiian Kingdom. In addition to writing various academic articles, he is the author of Waves of Resistance: Surfing and History in 20th Century Hawaii. He was born and raised in Hilo and currently resides in Punaluu, Oahu, with his wife and 5 keiki.
This discussion took place on January 12, 2020 in the Kanaina Building on Iolani Palace grounds.
Na Moolelo Lecture Series:
The Na Moolelo Lecture Series is an opportunity for the public to learn from Hawaiian cultural experts, historians and other museum professionals who prompt discussion of Hawaiian history and culture as well as museum practices. The free series supports Iolani Palace’s mission to preserve and share Hawaii’s unique cultural and historical qualities with the community.