Even from a young age, children are aware of race and racism. How do we help them build a strong foundation and help them navigate these challenges? In HCAN’s latest Keiki Talk, Kū Kahakalau, Ph.D (Kū-A-Kanaka LLC) and Elisapeta Alaimaleata (Le Fetuao Samoan Language Center) speak about their own experiences and offer their ideas for parents, educators, and community members to support our keiki and help them heal from racism.
Originally recorded on August 2, 2021. This event is free, but donations are welcome to support HCAN’s work.
About Kū Kahakalau, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Kū-A-Kanaka
Kū Kahakalau is the founder and former director of Kanu O Ka ʻĀina, the first Hawaiian-focused public charter school, located on Hawaiʻi Island. An award-winning educator, researcher, songwriter and Hawaiian language and culture expert, Dr. Kahakalau has been involved in indigenous, particularly Hawaiian, education and research for over 30 years. Her work has promoted the revitalization of Hawaiian language and culture, hands-on learning in the environment, community sustainability, food sovereignty, and Hawaiian self-determination in education and beyond using a Pedagogy of Aloha.
About Elisapeta T. Lesatele Alaimaleata
Executive Director/Founder, Le Fetuao Samoan Language Center
Elisapeta T. Lesatele Alaimaleata is from American Samoa and the Independent Nation of Samoa. Elisapeta’s professional history shows her dedication to the use, preservation and propagation of Samoan language and culture, and her service to native children. She has extensive experience as a classroom teacher of all stages from early education through High School. 12 years of her work at the University of Hawaii-Manoa were with some of the most under-served student populations in areas like Kalihi, Waipahu, and Waianae on Oahu. She traveled to Phonpei, Micronesia as a teacher trainer and a consultant.
About Keiki Talks
Keiki Talks are Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network’s premier forum for community leaders to learn about issues affecting our keiki. Previous topics have included adverse childhood experiences, the economic benefits of childhood investment, and paid family leave.
Contact
Ryan Catalani • [email protected]