Abstract

This paper examines notions of sustainability in terms of not only the readily acknowledged environmental sustainability but also cultural sustainability in the context of Hawai‘i Island, Hawai‘i. We begin with a discussion of the colonial occupation, statehood, tourism, the early 20th century ban on Hawaiian language and cultural activities, and the 50 percent blood quantum rule, noting the profound impact that these issues have had on Hawaiian identity and unity. Methods of data gathering included participant observation, semi-structured interviews, participant photographic observations (a photographic walk-through), pile sort, and category tests. Findings included how Hawaiian identity is perceived in relation to street signs, advertisements, activities, and landscapes of the public environment of Hawai‘i Island to better understand the contemporary Hawaiian identity sustainability efforts. Specifically, this paper examines the responses from indigenous Hawaiians and Hawai‘i residents about images of two postcards, a local restaurant and the Hilo Farmers’ Market in order to discuss meanings of Hawaiianess for each of the study populations. These findings may be of use to various groups in the Hawaiian Sovereignty Movement who must navigate representations of Hawaiianess to re-present themselves as a nation.