Expresses support for designating February 2025 as "Hawaiian Language Month" or "'Olelo Hawai'i Month" to celebrate and promote the revitalization of the Hawaiian language.
Jill Tokuda
Representative
HI-2
This bill expresses support for designating February 2025 as "Hawaiian Language Month" or "'Olelo Hawai'i Month" to recognize and celebrate the Hawaiian language (lelo Hawaii). It acknowledges the historical suppression of lelo Hawaii and the ongoing revitalization efforts. The bill also commits to preserving, protecting, and promoting the use, practice, and development of lelo Hawaii, urging all people in the United States to participate in celebrating lelo Hawaii Month.
February 2025 to Be 'Ōlelo Hawai'i Month: Bill Celebrates and Supports Hawaiian Language
This bill officially supports designating February 2025 as Hawaiian Language Month, or ''Ōlelo Hawai'i Month.' It's a move to recognize, preserve, and promote the native language of Native Hawaiians. The bill acknowledges that 'Ōlelo Hawai'i was nearly wiped out after an 1896 law banned it from schools (Section 1), but it's been making a comeback thanks to decades of grassroots efforts.
Language Revival
The bill highlights the big push since the 1960s to bring back 'Ōlelo Hawai'i, including language immersion programs and policy changes. Think of it like this: kids can now learn entirely in Hawaiian, just like they would in English or Spanish. Hawai'i made 'Ōlelo Hawai'i an official state language back in 1978 and lifted the ban on teaching it in schools in 1986 (Section 1). This bill builds on that momentum.
Real-World Impact
For Native Hawaiians, this is about keeping their culture and identity alive. It means more support for language programs, more resources for learners, and a greater appreciation for the language in everyday life. Imagine a community where the language isn't just spoken in classrooms but also in homes, stores, and everywhere else. The bill also aligns with the Native American Languages Act of 1990, which protects the right to use and develop Native American languages (Section 2).
The University of Hawaii at Hilo will also have a key role. Because of the Native American Language Resource Center Act of 2022, they got a 5 year grant to create a national center for Native American Language resources. This means that Hilo will be a hub for revitalizing indigenous languages. (Section 1)
The Big Picture
This bill isn't just symbolic. It's a commitment to preserving a language that was almost lost. It's about recognizing the importance of cultural heritage and supporting the ongoing efforts to keep 'Ōlelo Hawai'i thriving. The bill encourages everyone to celebrate Hawaiian Language Month with activities and programs that show support for the language (Section 3). It's a chance to learn, engage, and appreciate the richness of Hawaiian culture.