General Session featuring David Palaita "VĀSĀ (Ocean)—An Interdisciplinary Framework for Critical Pacific Islands & Oceania Studies"

Saturday, June 1, 2024  |  8:15 AM - 9:30 AM

This keynote explores the power of indigenous frameworks and language as a transformative site for re-imagining conceptions of space and identity in higher education. Using etymological deconstructions of words in our Pacific languages, the keynote will share a framework Pacific Islander students created at City College of San Francisco that are both de-centering and re-centering. A collective understanding of our ocean languages promotes values that provide a basic structure to building programs that are meaningful, intentional, and sustainable. The keynote will also illustrate how Pacific Islander student movements in schools are critiques of diversity in post-secondary educational institutions and explores students’ engagement with colonization--as a way of understanding their personal lives, their family and community histories, and the worlds they occupy.

David Palaita

Dr. David Ga'oupu Matthew Palaita, Ph.D., is a Samoan scholar born and raised in Waipahu, O'ahu, Hawai'i. A product of public schools and a former McNair Scholar at the University of Washington in Seattle, Dr. Palaita went on to become professor of Critical Pacific Islands & Oceania Studies and Ethnic Studies at the City College of San Francisco. He is currently chair of the department of Interdisciplinary at City Colege of San Francisco Studies where he oversees programs in Diversity and Social Justice, Ethnic Studies, Critical Middle East Studies, and Trauma, Prevention, and Recovery. Dr. Palaita is currently working on a
manuscript for publication entitled, "VĀSĀ (Ocean): An Interdisciplinary Framework for Critical Pacific Islands & Oceania Studies.

Closing Ceremony and Conference Closing Keynote – Using Only the Stars to Guide Us – Featuring Archie Kalepa

Saturday, June 1, 2024  |  2:45 PM - 4:00 PM

The conference closes with a profound message of the last element of the Pledge to our Keiki "Using only the Stars to Guide Them" featuring an address by Archie Kalepa and a conference closing ceremony.

Archie Kalepa

Archie Kalepa's story is deeply intertwined with the rich heritage of Hawai’i. Born and raised in Lahaina, Archie comes from a long line of Hawaiians deeply connected to the ocean. His lineage hails back to the Konohiki, the traditional caretakers of their community.

Archie's journey as a waterman began as a lifeguard, where he dedicated himself to safeguarding the lives of those who ventured into the powerful Hawaiian surf. His keen understanding of the ocean led him to become one of the most respected lifeguards in Hawaii.

But Archie's true passion lay in riding the colossal waves of Peahi, known as "Jaws." With fearlessness and a profound respect for nature, he became a legendary big wave surfer, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible. His name became synonymous with Peahi's treacherous swells, and he inspired a new generation of surfers.

Archie's legacy extended beyond surfing and lifeguarding. He was a pioneer, introducing jet skis into lifeguarding, revolutionizing water rescue techniques and saving countless lives. His innovations forever changed the field of ocean safety.

During the devastating Hurricane Iniki, Archie's heroics stood out. He helped develop a rescue technique incorporating jet skis equipped with rescue sleds and saved fifteen people and one dog, earning him the prestigious Eddie Aikau Waterman Award. 

Archie's commitment to his community extended to securing water rights in Kahoma Valley, ensuring that the lifeblood of Lahaina continued to flow freely after running dry for 130 years. 

His dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture led him to become the captain of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, which nurtures the ancient art of wayfinding. Archie played a prominent role in the successful Hokule’a Worldwide Voyage from 2014 to 2017. 

Archie Kalepa's journey from the shores of Lahaina to the heart of Hawaii's water culture is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and a deep connection to one's roots. His legacy lives on, reminding us of the boundless potential within each of us when we embrace our heritage and the world around us.

Photo at top featuring a Microsorum spectrum leaf (endemic to Hawai‘i and commonly known as a laua‘e fern) provided by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. Used with permission.