In recognition of Prince Kūhiō’s 150th birthday, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) will receive Hoʻokupu from Hawaiian Homes Commission Act beneficiaries at its Hale Kalanianaʻole office building in Kapolei, Oʻahu from March 15 to March 25, 2021.

All Ho‘okupu will be placed before a portrait of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana‘ole prior to March 26, 2021, when all state offices will be closed in observance of Prince Kūhiō Day, honoring the life and legacy of Ke Ali‘i Maka‘ainana, the people’s Prince.

“The word hoʻokupu means ‘to cause growth,’ and is meant as an expression of appreciation and a desire to grow and strengthen the relationship between the giver and the receiver,” said Hawaiian Homes Commission Chair William J. Ailā, Jr. “If we were not in a pandemic, we would gather in person to celebrate the life and work of Prince Kūhiō. While that isn’t possible at this time, we wanted to create an opportunity for the Department and the beneficiaries to demonstrate our appreciation of him.”

Prince Kūhiō Day is recognized by the State of Hawaii on his birthday and honors the life of the longtime delegate to the U.S. Congress and his many accomplishments in service of his people and the Hawaiian Islands.

In keeping with the City & County of Honolulu’s Tier 3 restrictions on public gatherings, beneficiaries who are interested in participating are asked to make an appointment with DHHL staff by e-mailing dhhl.icro@hawaii.gov. Appointments can be made until 4:00 p.m. on March 24, 2021.