ABOUT US

KAHEA is network of activists throughout five main Hawaiian Islands. We address critical issues within our communities and 'ahupua'a (geographic and cultural demarcation from the uppermost land to the outer reef).

We work with citizens organizing to protect sensitive shorelines and culturally significant sites from inappropriate development and to prevent the conversion of our agricultural lands to gated communities, golf courses, and malls. We also work to protect Hawaiis threatened biodiversity and endangered species.

One of KAHEA's objectives is to convene key activists, kupuna (elders), practitioners and resource experts. Together they develop coordinated strategies, share expertise, build networks and focus campaigns in order to become more effective in protecting Hawai'i's fragile environment, resources and people.

We strive to encourage citizen participation through outreach and education. By joining forces, Native Hawaiians, environmentalist activists and the concerned public can have a much greater impact on issues that affect us all.

Our Mission Statement

KAHEA is a community-based organization working to improve the quality of life for Hawai‘i's people and future generations through the revitalization and protection of Hawai‘i's unique natural and cultural resource. We advocate for the proper stewardship of our resources and for social responsibility by promoting multi-cultural understanding and environmental justice.

Kahea translates as "the call."

• We focus on issues that impact cultural rights and the 'aina (land).
• We are cultural activists and practitioners, including kuma hula (teachers of dance, language, chants, history, and healing), environmental activists and people concerned about social justice.
• We are on every island.
• We are 'opio (youth), makua (adults) and kupuna (elders).