01-07-2014, 10:15 AM
A wise friend, after living on Oahu for a year, recognized his own racial assumptions. Hawaii, he found, was "the first place I have lived where we (haole) are not the majority." I am certain he appreciated the humility and broadened perspective he gained here. He carried little racial baggage, treated everyone with courtesy and respect and loves the islands still.
I am a "local haole," having lived here since age 5 or 6. My wife (Japanese heritage from Maui) and I find Puna to be reminiscent of the Hawaii of our childhood. Racial identity (and what high school you went) are sources of pride. Racism per se, can be found, like anyplace. Puna as my Asian born sister-in-law says, "is a very accepting place." I love the advice to make eye contact, give a smile and say Hi to local residents (and everyone else for that matter).
I am a "local haole," having lived here since age 5 or 6. My wife (Japanese heritage from Maui) and I find Puna to be reminiscent of the Hawaii of our childhood. Racial identity (and what high school you went) are sources of pride. Racism per se, can be found, like anyplace. Puna as my Asian born sister-in-law says, "is a very accepting place." I love the advice to make eye contact, give a smile and say Hi to local residents (and everyone else for that matter).