For over two decades, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement continues to uplift and empower Native Hawaiians. Today, we move forward with a name that fully reflects our kuleana (responsibility) and kūlana (role) in Hawai‘i nei: Hawaiian Council.
Like the ʻAha of old — councils of experts who guided and protected our people — Hawaiian Council brings together the strands of our lāhui: cultural practitioners, educators, entrepreneurs, leaders, and community voices. In ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, aho is a single strand of cord, strong on its own but made unbreakable when woven with others into an ʻAha. Our members, partners, and community are those strands, each contributing unique knowledge and skill to our collective strength.
Our new name is more than a rebrand — it’s a reaffirmation of our role – the Hawaiian Council is a place where every strand is valued, every voice matters, and we weave together a future of Hawaiians advancing Hawai‘i.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why did we rebrand from the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement to Hawaiian Council?
We wanted a name that fully reflects our kuleana (responsibility) and kūlana (role) in Hawai‘i. Hawaiian Council is simple, clear, and honors the traditional ʻAha — councils of experts who guided and protected our people.
What does “Hawaiian Council” mean?
The name connects to the ʻAha of old. In ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, aho is a single strand of cord —strong on its own, but made unbreakable when woven with others into an ʻAha. Our members, partners, and community are those strands, each contributing to our collective strength.
Is this just a rebrand?
No — it’s a reaffirmation of who we are and the work we do. The Hawaiian Council is a place where every strand is valued, every voice matters, and we weave together a future of Hawaiians advancing Hawai‘i.
Why is the new name – Hawaiian Council – important for the community?
Will the organization’s mission change?
No. Our mission remains the same — to uplift and empower Native Hawaiians. The new name strengthens our identity and better reflects our work.
How will this affect the services and programs we offer?
All our services, programs, and initiatives will continue as before. The name change does not impact access — it enhances our visibility and clarity for those we serve.
