The Institute for Museum and Library Services awarded $249,495 to INPEACE to advance our Kaulele Program, to support the preservation and perpetuation of Indigenous languages and traditional cultural practices of the new Hale Building exhibit.
With this $249,495 IMLS award, our Kaulele program will enhance our exhibit design capabilities and expand our expertise, enabling us to gather oral histories and effectively translate indigenous Hale building practices and technologies into a mobile exhibit. Part of this project will also include enriching our cultural library by capturing oral histories and cultural practice s through video documentation aligned with the cultural practices to produce a captivating video series featuring kupuna and renowned cultural experts.
Native Hawaiians possess a rich tradition of constructing a hale (house), which reflects their deep understanding of materials, environment and traditional practices. The indigenous knowledge of building a hale is a testament to the sustainable and harmonious relationship Hawaiians have with their land and natural resources. The indigenous knowledge of building a hale among Native Hawaiians is a profound example of sustainable architecture that integrates cultural, environmental, and communal values. It highlights a holistic approach to building that respects and works with nature, ensuring that these structures not only meet practical needs, but also uphold cultural heritage and spiritual well-being.
“This funding will help Kaulele to conduct the work that it will take to ensure that the Hale Exhibit will be received by the community as a well and correctly informed experience that captures the firsthand knowledge, skills, and teachings of the cultural practitioners and experts of the multiple fields of work which aide in what it takes to build a traditional Hawaiian hale.” ~ Kaulana Eli, Program Manager
