Students perform at the 52nd annual David Malo Day Ho‘olaule‘a at Lahainaluna High School on April 22. The cherished event celebrates Hawaiian culture and the historic school’s ‘ohana.

LAHAINA — The heartfelt joy of the David Malo Day Ho’olaule’a was rekindled on Saturday, April 22, at Lahainaluna High School’s Boarders’ Field. The iconic celebration returned for the 52nd renewal within the sunset warmth of the Lahaina community and the deep traditions of the program.

Over 50 years ago, community leader Jimmie Greig began to instill in the students in the Lahainaluna Boarding Program the need to learn their culture through music and hula.

Other students joined the program, and the Hawaiiana Club was formed.

Greig had the vision of instilling in the students that they are the stewards of the culture, and that culture lives here at Lahainaluna.

Thus, through the songs, chants and mele of our Hawaii Nei, students learned to “… have a sense of giving, a sense of sharing, a sense of ‘ohana, community, and a sense of continuity.” Hula, indeed is a way of life.

Co-advisors Aunty Lori Gomez-Karinen and Kumu Eva Palakiko have carried that torch forward to continue with the 2023 celebration.

The Hawaiiana Club and the Boarders’ Chorus performed splendidly to celebrate the spirit of David Malo and Lahainaluna High School.

The Classes of 1954 (represented by Harold Hirokani), 1961 (celebrating their 80th birthday), 1962 (a mini-reunion), and 1973 (celebrating their 50th year anniversary reunion) were present. Imua to all!

Aunty Lori expressed the appreciation of all to the family of Jimmie Greig, Lahainaluna and Lahaina community support, as well as the U.S. House of Representatives for their certificate of congratulations in “Commemoration of David Malo Day,” and to the Hawaii State Legislature for their certificate of congratulations to Lahainaluna High School on the occasion of the 52nd annual David Malo Day Ho’olaule’a.

The Torch of Learning was passed to Kumu Eva Palakiko as the incoming advisor of the hui that will continue David Malo Day, and to Kumu Teva Medeiros and Kumu Kalamaku Freitas, both of whom will help with the teaching of the chants and mele. Hula is life!