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I Am Hawaiian — And Haole

I Am Hawaiian — And Haole

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A teacher in Waianae hopes her students will discover a space for Native Hawaiians to thrive in the modern Western world.
What Does It Mean To Be Chicana in Hawaii?

What Does It Mean To Be Chicana in Hawaii?

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Now that she lives in the islands, a woman who is part-Filipina, part-Chicana finally feels like — at least at a glance — she finally belongs.
Confessions Of A Native Hawaiian Poster Child

Confessions Of A Native Hawaiian Poster Child

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When a teenager steeped in her Hawaiian roots is more interested in pop culture, establishing an identity isn't always easy.
What I’ve Learned About ‘Being Local’

What I’ve Learned About ‘Being Local’

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Looking back over his life, an Oahu-born expatriate discovers that the moment when he feels genuinely local is rare — and precious.
In Hawaii, We Talk About Ethnicity All The Time — Including In Pidgin

In Hawaii, We Talk About Ethnicity All The Time — Including In Pidgin

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A writer uses pidgin to highlight Hawaii's unique diversity and local identity, although he notes Hawaii isn't perfect on racial and ethnic issues.
The Lens of Race Reveals Inequality

The Lens of Race Reveals Inequality

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My study of the experiences of black people in Hawaii reveals that we have much to learn from a race-centered perspective.
There Is An ‘Aloha Spirit’ — But With Limits

There Is An ‘Aloha Spirit’ — But With Limits

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Hawaii isn't the racial paradise the tourism industry pretends it is, but it does offer some insights for the mainland.
Trying to Set the Record Straight on Hawaii’s History

Trying to Set the Record Straight on Hawaii’s History

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A man who usually avoids getting mixed up with Hawaiian "activism" is speaking out to encourage people to make sure their grievances are anchored to actual history.
Hawaii’s ‘Melting Pot’ Obscures the Struggles of Native Hawaiians

Hawaii’s ‘Melting Pot’ Obscures the Struggles of Native Hawaiians

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The islands' reputation as a melting pot can blur racism toward the original locals, Native Hawaiians.
Think of Hawaii as a Racial Volcano

Think of Hawaii as a Racial Volcano

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The widespread belief that we live in a racial paradise leaves some residents allergic to discussions of contemporary racism and colonialism.
California Living Reminds Me I’m From Hawaii

California Living Reminds Me I’m From Hawaii

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What is it to be from, or of, the islands? For me, it means rediscovering Hawaii in some unexpected places later in life.
‘So, How Long Have You Lived In Hawaii?’

‘So, How Long Have You Lived In Hawaii?’

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After seven years in the islands, David Morgan felt he had it all. But something was amiss. He didn't feel truly local.