Sara Kehaulani Goo, a Native Hawaiian, found herself at a crossroads in 2019 when she received an email from her father informing her that the property taxes on their ancestral land in Hāna, Maui had increased by a staggering 500%. This sudden spike in taxes put their family trust fund at risk of depletion within 7 years, potentially leading to the loss of their land if they were unable to pay. The news shook Goo to her core, prompting her to take action to save her family’s legacy.
In her newly released memoir, titled “Kuleana,” Goo recounts the journey she embarked on alongside her relatives to combat the tax hike and secure the future of their land. The Hawaiian word “kuleana” holds deep significance, representing both privilege and responsibility. Goo’s narrative delves into the complexities of Indigenous identity and the enduring impacts of colonial land theft in Hawai’i. She challenges readers to consider their own responsibilities towards Hawai’i in the face of ongoing environmental degradation and dependence on imported food.
Despite the historical injustices inflicted upon the Hawaiian Kingdom, Goo’s family had managed to maintain ownership of their ancestral land, passed down to them by Hawaiian royalty. Armed with the necessary documentation, including trust fund provisions, they fought to preserve their connection to the land amidst rising property taxes driven in part by wealthy out-of-state buyers. The looming threat of losing their land spurred Goo to take a stand and reclaim her roots.
As a former journalist and editor, Goo brings a unique perspective to the conversation surrounding Indigenous land rights and climate change. While her memoir primarily focuses on the fight to protect her family’s land, she acknowledges the broader implications of environmental degradation on the islands. Climate change poses a significant threat to Hawai’i, compounding the historical trauma of colonialism and highlighting the importance of Indigenous stewardship.
Goo emphasizes the concept of “kuleana” as a guiding principle for individuals to consider their roles and responsibilities in society. Rooted in Hawaiian values of honor and stewardship, “kuleana” transcends mere duty and emphasizes one’s connection to the land and community. By reflecting on the past practices of self-sustainability in Hawai’i, Goo encourages a return to Indigenous ways of living that prioritize environmental preservation and local food production.
In a time where Hawai’i imports 90% of its food, the lessons of “Kuleana” resonate deeply, urging readers to reevaluate their relationship to the land and their obligations to future generations. Goo’s memoir serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of colonization and the resilience of Indigenous communities fighting to protect their heritage in the face of mounting challenges. We can learn from the struggles and experiences of others, like those shared in the book, to better understand the challenges faced by Indigenous communities around the world. By recognizing the systemic issues that contribute to these disparities, we can work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
One key takeaway from the book is the importance of preserving cultural heritage and connection to the land. By understanding and honoring our history, we can build a stronger sense of identity and community. This can help us navigate the challenges of modern society while staying true to our roots.
Additionally, the book sheds light on the need for greater accountability and transparency in government processes. By advocating for fair and just policies, we can work towards a more inclusive society that values the voices and rights of all its citizens.
Overall, “How do we go back to that?” prompts us to reflect on our past, understand our present, and envision a better future. By learning from the experiences of others and taking action to address systemic injustices, we can work towards a more sustainable and inclusive world for all. Growing up, many of us may have experienced moments of insecurity about our cultural identity. Some of us may have let those feelings go, while others, like myself, chose to investigate and delve deeper into our heritage. I was curious and eager to learn more about my Hawaiian roots, especially after discovering that even my cousins in Hawaiʻi had similar insecurities about their Hawaiian-ness.
It was a revelation for me to realize that if my own family members were questioning their cultural identity, then who was anyone else to judge or define how Hawaiian we were? I came to understand that living your culture is a personal choice. You either embrace it wholeheartedly, pass it on to your children, and let it bring you joy, or you don’t. And ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide how they want to connect with their community and heritage.
One of the most profound experiences that anchored me in my Hawaiian culture was learning hula. It was a transformative journey that helped me deepen my connection to my roots. However, there were challenges along the way, such as my children’s reluctance to participate in hula and wear lei. But as time passed, my daughter Chloe had a change of heart. She recognized the significance of her Hawaiian heritage and asked me to make her a lei for her eighth-grade promotion.
This moment was a testament to the fact that Hawaiʻi had found a place in her heart. I realized that as a parent, I had to let my children find their own path and connection to their culture. While hula may not be their thing now, I trust that they will discover their own way back to Hawaiʻi and the culture when the time is right. I am grateful to have instilled in them the foundation and surrounded them with influences that will guide them on their own cultural journey.
In the end, I hope that my children will embrace their Hawaiian heritage in their own time and in their own way. As a parent, all I can do is provide them with the tools and knowledge to reconnect with their roots when the time is right for them. My journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration was not just for me but for my children as well, so that they may find their own path back to Hawaiʻi and the culture that speaks to their hearts.
