World-renowned experts in indigenous language and knowledge will convene at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa‘s Andrews Amphitheater for an evening of Hawaiian language, knowledge, mele and hula on February 23.

In honor of Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, Hawaiian Language Month, A Hoʻolauleʻa of Knowledges will bring together Sir Tīmoti Kāretu, a preeminent scholar of language and cultural revitalization for his native Māori, with a panel of remarkable Pacific Island experts.

According to Puakea Nogelmeier, a professor of Hawaiian language at UH Mānoa’s Kawaihuelani Center for Hawaiian Language, “Sea Grant‘s Hoʻolauleʻa of Knowledges promises to be a unique event, where thoughtful reflection is invested into great entertainment. Rare indeed to hear Sir Tīmoti Kāretu in person, it is rarer to have local scholars be able to express how his thoughts are embodied here in Hawaiʻi.”

The expert panel, which convenes after Sir Tīmoti’s keynote address, includes Papaliʻi Tusi Avegalio, director of the UH Mānoa Pacific Business Center Program; Kaliko Baker, assistant professor with the Kawaihuelani Center for Hawaiian Language; Kalehua Krug, educational specialist with the state Department of Education; and Kalei Nuʻuhiwa, Papakū Makawalu researcher with the Edith Kanakaʻole Foundation.

Following the panel discussion, award-winning musicians Robert Cazimero and hālau hula Na Kamalei, UH West Oʻahu‘s Aaron Salā, Snowbird Bento and Kūpaoa will present new mele and classic favorites.

The event, from 4 to 8 p.m., is free and open to the public, and tickets can be downloaded online. Food vendors will be available.

For more information, see the news release.

—By Cindy Knapman