Lā 1111

If you have ever heard the phrase, “Mauna Kea is returned to her true splendor” have no doubt that Kumu Mikilani Young is uttering those words in prayer somewhere along her journey of over 1,000 days throughout Indigenous communities all over Moku Honu. What a privilege for Mauna Kea Education and Awareness to recognize this deep connection to Mikilani over the past five years. What began as workshops and fundraisers in the LA area quickly evolved to sign waving and rallying in front of the TMT Headquarters there. Mikilani’s mission has transformed since then into this beautiful prayer filled journey, led by her kupuna in complete trust leading her to meet the most incredible protectors around fires, on stages, at gatherings and ceremonies sharing her connection and commitment to Mauna Kea everywhere she goes. MKEA has been there with her through live feeds, phone calls, messages and when there has been opportunity we’ve stood together on the MaunA here and on mountains beyond our shores. These photos provide a glimpse of the journey to keep Mauna Kea visible, and in prayer. Whenever Mikilani speaks of the mission she is on, she is extremely humble, thankful and grateful to the ancestors who lead and guide her and to the elders who school her along the way. Mahalo nui Mikilani. See you on La 1111 for Mauna Kea and for all places and nations you have touched every single day!!! I ka Piko o Ke aloha, Eo!