Turning Tide Ch.13

The term ONIPA'A signifies steadfastness and reflects the political and cultural emancipation of Hawaiians, culminating in the centennial observance of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
This observance recalls the tumultuous days from January 14 to January 17, 1893, during which significant changes occurred in Hawaiian governance.

The observance was planned by State Senator Eloise Tungpalan and her ONIPA'A Centennial Committee, beginning with an official opening ceremony on January 13.
The ceremony took place in front of "The Spirit of Lili'uokalani," a statue symbolizing hope and resilience between the Iolani Palace and State Capitol, with notable guests from various nations including the Cook Islands, Tonga, and Australia.
A poignant moment included one hundred dignitaries placing flowers into a calabash to symbolize a century of unresolved grievances following the monarchy's overthrow.

On January 14, a day of mourning marked the memorial of the monarchy's loss, reflected through black shrouds hung on the Palace and the royal standard flying for the first time in a hundred years.
The Royal Guard marched solemnly, complementing the emotionally charged address by Reverend Christopher Keahi, who reminded audiences of their history and collective struggles.

A significant offering ceremony, or Spiritual Ho'okupu, occurred on January 15, led by Prince Edward Keli'iahonui Kawänanakoa and Governor John David Waihe'e III, honoring Queen Lili'uokalani.
This ceremony saw participants presenting flowers to honor a leader who fought to preserve Hawaiian sovereignty during challenging times.
Reenactments of the closing legislature a century ago and a performance by the Royal Hawaiian Band intertwined with the offerings, resonating with both historical significance and emotional tribute.

On January 15, an elaborate street drama titled "The Overthrow" was enacted, portraying the key events surrounding the overthrow of the monarchy.
This living pageant involved actors in period costumes, capturing the essence of conflict between the native Hawaiians and the annexationists led by Lorrin Thurston.
The production was met with acclaim, shedding light on the historical narrative of the 1893 upheavals and stimulating conversations about sovereignty.

The series of events reignited a sense of pride and awareness among participants and viewers regarding their heritage and the injustices faced by their ancestors.
Elizabeth Nälani Ellis, an elder, poignantly recounted the loss and changes brought about by outside forces, urging the younger generations to cherish their roots and history.
As tensions grew, protests emerged, reflecting a strong desire among the Hawaiian people to reclaim their sovereignty and cultural identity.

The dramatic events of January 17, 1893, highlighted increased frustrations with American military presence, leading to civic unrest and protests against the U.S. involvement in Hawaiian governance.
Following the observance, various opinions regarding sovereignty and reparations emerged, leading to calls for action and awareness of Hawaiian civil rights.

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement gained momentum, receiving media attention and stirring debates about identity, cultural preservation, and future governance.
The funeral-like mourning observed during ONIPA'A revealed both collective grief and hopes for healing among Hawaiians, emphasizing the importance of unity and cultural renaissance in pursuit of reparation and recognition of historical grievances.

Significant events included a formal apology issued by the United Church of Christ recognizing their ancestors' complicity in the overthrow, establishing a reconciliatory tone for community engagement.
Governor Waihe'e’s decision to honor Hawaiian culture during celebrations symbolized progress toward acknowledgment of historical injustices and a commitment to a reconciliated future.
The 1993 resolutions and public ceremonies, including an official apology from Congress, indicated a renewed dialogue about sovereignty and cultural identity.

Ultimately, ONIPA'A served not just as a commemoration of past injustices, but as a catalyst for ongoing discussions and movements towards sovereignty and cultural revitalization.
The events marked a turning point, fostering hope and action among the Hawaiian people to reclaim their narrative and work towards an equitable future for generations to come.