We are a group of dedicated students, passionate about learning the Hawaiian language through the hybrid ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi class currently taught by Kumu ʻEhukai (Westin Carvalho) at Leeward Community College. This Hawaiian 101 class has been a lifeline for us, allowing us to balance our commitments to work and family with our desire to learn and preserve the cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi.

The unique hybrid format of this course, which involves one in-person meeting per month, is perfectly suited to those of us who cannot attend classes during regular daytime or early evening hours due to work or family responsibilities. However, we have recently learned that there are plans not to continue this class for Hawaiian 102 into the Spring semester of 2024.

Hawaiian language is an integral part of Hawaii's cultural identity. According to data from the U.S Census Bureau (2016), very little of Hawaii's population can speak Hawaiian fluently. The discontinuation of this class would be a significant setback in efforts towards preserving and promoting Hawaiian language proficiency among residents.

We urge Leeward Community College administration not only consider our personal needs but also recognize the broader implications for cultural preservation within the communities that Leeward Community College serves and beyond. Please reconsider your decision and continue offering the Hybrid 'Ōlelo Hawai'i (Hawaiian 102) class in Spring semester 2024.

Sign this petition if you support continuing the hybrid once-a-month in-person course in 'Ōlelo Hawai'i at Leeward Community College!