Navigating Cultural Waters: Captain Cook's Visit and Its Relevance

Aloha e kuu poe heluhelu,

In 1779, Captain Cook and his crew dropped anchor in Kealakekua Bay. Hawaiian tradition dictated that a fleet of canoes greeted them, and high Chief Kalaniopuu ensured these haole (foreigners) were treated with Hawaiian hospitality. However, tensions flared when some of Cook's crew members stole a canoe belonging to Chief Palea. When he confronted the crew, he was attacked and a battle broke out.

In retaliation, kanaka (Hawaiian people) stole a skiff from Cook's ship. In response, Captain Cook took Kalaniopuu hostage on his ship, demanding the return of his skiff. Another chief named Kalimu rushed to Cook's ship in an effort to rescue Kalaniopuu, but was tragically shot by Cook's crew. These events incited the anger of Kalaniopuu's people, leading to a large-scale battle where many lives were lost. Captain Cook himself was sought after and killed.

Let's point out some things: Many people think that Captain Cook was the first haole to come to Hawaii, but this is untrue. We were accustomed to foreigners coming to our islands. Captain Cook and his crew met a gruesome end because they violated the Hawaiian customs and forgot their place. Had they been more respectful and mindful of the cultural nuances I believe that the end of the story would've been very different. 

Now let me make this relatable to our day because this is a very extreme example of the clash of two cultures. This week, I'm preparing a presentation on Hawaiian language and history for some members of our church. Many of them are newcomers, including military families who've relocated here. Within our congregation, there have been unintentional offenses, mainly due to ignorance. This growing concern has prompted me to think of unity and understanding among local people and newcomers.

One of the leaders I spoke with about this issue is a transplant. He was initially unaware of the lack of unity in the congregation and assumed that there was unity. After observing that activities were not attended “by every demographic,” he sought suggestions to address this. I offered my expertise in language and culture and to invite senior members of the congregation to share their local lifestyle.

I'm pleased to share that he took my ideas to heart, and we're now planning workshops focused on education to build unity and understanding. An old Hawaiian saying comes to mind, "Komo mai kau mapuna hoe," which means "let your paddle in" or simply "pitch in." On a canoe, everyone has a role and no one sits idly by. Similarly, we all should contribute and work together in our community. I've never been one to sit back and complain, hoping for change without taking action. 

Challenges will always arise wherever we go. I hope we can draw inspiration from this story and saying, applying them to our lives.

Owau io no,

Malu

Excerpt of the Story