Kuleana O'iwi Press

Artist Networks and Convenings

Location:

Honolulu, HI

Award:

$12,000

Project:

Maoli Writers Conference

Website:

www.hawaii.edu/oiwi/

The conference will be the first ever Native Hawaiian Writers and Literature conference. Hosted by "InK" (Indigenous Knowledge), the gathering will be held in Fall 2012 in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. Open to ages young adult to kupuna (elders), the events over the course of 2-3 days will feature writing workshops open to conference attendees with published Native Hawaiian writers and the events will showcase the work of poets, novelists, and short story writers; and include keynotes addresses, readings, and a roundtable of writers.

“The act of giving was part of the ‘gifting economy’ of the Northwest where one’s wealth was measured by generosity, good work and a good heart. That is the work of philanthropy too: It’s an honor to have plenty and to share. There is no lack when you have this process in place and the most important mindset to have while participating is gratitude, or giving thanks and promising to care for all, no matter what.”

Elizabeth Woody, Navajo/Warm Springs/Wasco/Yakama

K-12 Program Coordinator, Center for Coastal Marine Observation & Prediction

“These gifts demonstrate strong tribal interest in creating a powerful funding engine for protecting and preserving Native art and culture—the very cornerstones of tribal sovereignty. A foundation of this nature will help reverse the long history of government suppression of Native culture done as part of the United States' assimilation program. Through gifts of this nature, Indian Country can direct its resources to protect what is closest to home to all Indian tribes—our own cultures."

Walter Echo-Hawk, Pawnee

Board Chair, Native Arts & Cultures Foundation

Kuleana O'iwi Press

2011/2012 Grantees

2010/2011 Grantees