Boys attending Kamehameha Kapālama have been required to keep their hair above their collar and no longer, according to the KS Handbook. From my experience of the COVID-19 lockdown/quarantine, it appeared to me that many boys have grown their hair out, including myself. In the midst of my freshmen year, my friends, family, and I have noticed a concern that my hair could be called out for being “too long”. And from that, I asked myself: Why is this a dress code requirement? Why are boys required to keep their hair short? I strongly believe this requirement should be changed. Kamehameha Schools’ foundation is based purely upon the Hawaiian culture. Looking back, most ancient Hawaiian kāne had long hair. After all, our ancestors believed that hair had a substantial amount of mana. The goal here is to allow boys to have long, neat hair. Though I am vouching for the freedom of this rule, neatness does need to be considered by boys before deciding to grow their hair out. If you don’t think you can maintain it, you should keep it shorter until you’re confident. I hope this petition finds you well and please consider signing if you’d like this dress code to change. Mahalo nui for your attention. 

- Kikau Kia

(This is not a petition that is, in any way, against the Kamehameha Schools administration. It is just a strong suggestion to consider a change of dress code. Mahalo)