ALA HULU KŪPUNA

“As I wrote Ala Hulu Kupuna, I could see the choreography and hear the melody even as I began to put the words on paper. The phrase, Ala Hulu Kupuna was inspired by the hoʻokupu (offering) of kāhili that were ceremonially gifted by cultural practitioners and their families  who had come from Puʻukoholā that day. What a magnificent sight it was and such an outpouring of respect and honor for the kūpuna and the kiaʻi who had made the commitment to protect the mountain. I recall saying to everyone assembled there, “From this day, this roadway, the Mauna Kea Access Road will be known as the Ala Hulu Kupuna.” 

Following the presentation of these kāhili, each kupuna was bestowed with one of the kāhili and I was honored that the kupuna requested that I select a kāhili as well which sits majestically in my living room. 

The colors of the kāhili feathers inspired me to write this mele which speaks of Mauna Kea and the three kāhili that the mountain holds everyday, the pua māmane, the pua ʻāhinahina and the pua ʻaʻaliʻi. The mele pays tribute to the relationship that all who were on the access road felt while being there on Mauna Kea and finally, it ends with a grateful intention that all who stand for Mauna a Wākea, Mauna a Kea, Mauna Kea receive a blessing of long life and good health for their sacrifice, commitment, dedication and deep love for this sacred mountain. 

From that day on, Mauna Kea Access Road was referred to as Ala Hulu Kupuna and I believe it will be known by that name forever more by those who have ever stood, danced, chanted, and prayed there. 

That is the sentiment that goes into this selection. My goal is to sing and dance Ala HuluKupuna on the Ala Hula Kupuna with everyone, hopefully gathered not in a front line action butin a frontline celebration...E ola ka piko o ka Mauna nui a Kea.”