In the intricate tapestry of Hawaiian politics and community advocacy, certain figures emerge with a profound dedication to their heritage and people. Among these is Larry Kawaauhau, a name that resonates with the ongoing struggle for Native Hawaiian self-determination and the restoration of ancestral lands. His journey is one marked by unwavering commitment, a deep understanding of historical injustices, and a persistent drive to bring about meaningful change for his community.
Kawaauhau's advocacy extends beyond mere political ambition; it is rooted in a fundamental belief in justice and the inherent rights of Native Hawaiians. As the islands grapple with complex issues ranging from land ownership to cultural preservation, individuals like Larry Kawaauhau stand as vital conduits for progress, ensuring that the voices of those most affected are heard and amplified in the halls of power and public discourse. His continued presence in the political arena underscores the critical importance of these issues to the future of Hawaiʻi.
Table of Contents
- Larry Kawaauhau: A Profile in Dedication
- A Life Dedicated to Service: Military Roots
- Larry Kawaauhau and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs
- Navigating the Political Landscape: Election Campaigns
- The Core of His Advocacy: Land and Reparations
- Transparency and Trust: Larry's Commitment
- Connecting with the Community: Larry Kawaauhau's Presence
- The Enduring Fight for Justice
Larry Kawaauhau: A Profile in Dedication
Understanding the motivations and background of public figures is crucial for an informed citizenry, especially when they are vying for positions that directly impact the lives of thousands. Larry Kawaauhau is one such individual, whose public life is intertwined with the pursuit of justice for Native Hawaiians. A resident of Waianae, Hawaiʻi, Larry Kawaauhau has made his home on the island, deeply connecting him to the very issues he seeks to address. His full name, Larry Leimomi Kekumu Kawaauhau, and other variations like Larry L. Kawaauhau or Larry L. K. Kawaauhau, are recognized within the community, signifying a familiar presence in the ongoing discourse surrounding Hawaiian affairs.
His biography, while not extensively detailed in public records beyond his political aspirations and professional profiles, clearly indicates a life oriented towards service and community engagement. When exploring the comprehensive biography, issue stances, and endorsements of Larry Kawaauhau, one finds a consistent narrative: a dedicated advocate focused on rectifying historical wrongs and securing a more equitable future for his people. This dedication is not a recent development but appears to be a deeply ingrained aspect of his character, stemming from his foundational values and experiences.
Personal Data & Biodata
While specific birth dates and early life details are not widely publicized, the available information paints a picture of a committed individual. His current residence in Waianae, HI, places him directly within the communities most affected by the issues he champions. His professional presence on platforms like LinkedIn further solidifies his public persona, offering a glimpse into his career trajectory and skills.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Larry Leimomi Kekumu Kawaauhau |
| Known As | Larry Kawaauhau, Larry L. Kawaauhau, Larry L. K. Kawaauhau |
| Current Residence | Waianae, HI |
| Key Advocacy Focus | Native Hawaiian Land Rights, Reparations, OHA Mission |
| Political Aspirations | Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Board of Trustees |
| Professional Presence | LinkedIn (1 job listed, part of a professional community of 1 billion members) |
| Stated Values | Loyal, Trustworthy |
A Life Dedicated to Service: Military Roots
The foundation of Larry Kawaauhau's commitment to public service and his strong ethical compass can be traced back to his military background. He articulates this clearly, stating, "My skills as a military soldier to complete all task required of me, my values of being loyal, and trustworthy, I take to OHA." This statement is profound, revealing how his formative experiences in the armed forces instilled in him a discipline, a sense of duty, and a set of core values that he believes are directly transferable and highly beneficial to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).
Military service often cultivates individuals who are adept at problem-solving, strategic thinking, and executing complex tasks under pressure. These are precisely the attributes that are invaluable in the realm of public governance and advocacy. For Larry Kawaauhau, the loyalty he learned in the military translates into unwavering dedication to the Hawaiian people, and his trustworthiness forms the bedrock of his interactions and promises. This background provides a unique lens through which he approaches the challenges facing Native Hawaiians, emphasizing a methodical and principled approach to achieving their goals.
Larry Kawaauhau and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs
The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) holds a pivotal role in the lives of Native Hawaiians, serving as a semi-autonomous state agency tasked with improving the well-being of the indigenous people of Hawaiʻi. It manages a trust fund and advocates for Native Hawaiian rights, culture, and land. It is within this crucial framework that Larry Kawaauhau has sought to make a significant impact, running for a position on its Board of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees is the governing body of OHA, responsible for setting policy, managing assets, and overseeing the agency's mission. Kawaauhau's aspiration to serve as a Trustee at Large underscores his desire to contribute to the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of OHA. His involvement is not just as a candidate but also as an active participant in OHA-related discussions, as evidenced by his role in calling a "Board of Directors’ meeting called to order by Larry Kawaauhau (District 1) at 6:00 p" at the HPPOA Activity Center Library, where social distancing and mask protocols were observed. This indicates a prior or ongoing engagement with OHA-related entities or community groups, showcasing a hands-on approach to leadership and community organization.
The OHA Mission and Larry's Vision
Larry Kawaauhau's candidacy for OHA Trustee at Large is explicitly tied to his commitment "to fulfill the OHA’s mission." This mission is broad, encompassing the preservation of culture, the protection of natural resources, the advancement of self-determination, and the improvement of the socio-economic status of Native Hawaiians. For Kawaauhau, fulfilling this mission necessitates a direct confrontation with the historical injustices that have plagued the Hawaiian people for generations.
His vision aligns with the core mandate of OHA but emphasizes a particularly urgent aspect: land restitution. He believes that the OHA's mission cannot be truly fulfilled without addressing the foundational issue of land deprivation. His understanding of the OHA's role is not merely administrative but transformative, aiming to leverage the institution's power and resources to achieve tangible, lasting change for Native Hawaiians, especially concerning their ancestral lands.
Navigating the Political Landscape: Election Campaigns
The political landscape in Hawaiʻi, particularly concerning the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, is often described as complex and highly competitive. The race for one of the OHA Board of Trustees positions typically features a crowded field of candidates, each bringing their unique perspectives and platforms to the forefront. Larry Kawaauhau has been a recurring figure in these elections, demonstrating his persistent dedication despite past outcomes.
The "crowded field in the race for one of the Office of Hawaiian Affair’s Board of Trustee’s" is a testament to the importance of these positions within the Native Hawaiian community and beyond. Voters from all islands can vote for OHA trustees, making it a statewide contest that requires broad appeal and a clear message. Larry Kawaauhau's consistent participation in these elections highlights his belief in the democratic process as a means to achieve his advocacy goals.
The 2022 and 2024 Races
Larry Kawaauhau's electoral journey includes multiple attempts to secure a trustee seat. He is noted as a "Big Island resident Larry Kawaauhau is also running again after losing in 2022," indicating his resilience and determination. His continued efforts despite a previous loss speak volumes about his commitment to the cause rather than personal ambition alone. The electoral process is often a long game, requiring candidates to build name recognition, refine their message, and connect with voters over time.
In the most recent primary election, held on August 10, 2024, Larry Kawaauhau unfortunately "lost in the primary." This outcome placed him behind other leading candidates who advanced to the general election. The data indicates that "The top candidates that will face off in the general election are Akina (26.7%) and Ahu Isa (20.2%)," referring to Keli’i Akina and Lei Ahu Isa. Other candidates in the crowded field included Jackie Burke, Kaipo Hanakahi, Lenson Sonoda, Keoni Souza, Peter Apo, and Leona, alongside Larry Kawaauhau. Despite not advancing, his participation ensures that the issues he champions remain part of the public discourse, and his voice contributes to the overall narrative of the election.
The Core of His Advocacy: Land and Reparations
At the heart of Larry Kawaauhau's platform and his unwavering commitment lies the profound and deeply emotional issue of Native Hawaiian ancestral lands and the historical injustices surrounding their confiscation. He articulates this central concern with clarity and urgency: "Larry Kawaauhau says the most pressing issue facing Native Hawaiians is “full reparation of the 1893 illegal overthrow and full inventory of lands confiscated after 1893.”" This statement encapsulates the historical trauma and ongoing deprivation faced by Native Hawaiians, who are "facing the ongoing issue of being deprived of their ancestral lands, with their Hawaii being sold repeatedly to benefit others instead of" themselves.
The year 1893 marks a pivotal and painful moment in Hawaiian history: the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. For Kawaauhau, this event is not merely a historical footnote but a living wound that continues to impact the lives and well-being of Native Hawaiians today. His call for "full reparation" is a demand for restorative justice, recognizing that the economic, cultural, and spiritual health of the Hawaiian people is inextricably linked to their connection to their land. The demand for a "full inventory of lands confiscated after 1893" signifies a meticulous and accountable approach to understanding the full extent of the loss, which is a necessary first step towards any meaningful form of restitution.
This focus on land is not just about physical territory; it is about sovereignty, cultural identity, economic self-sufficiency, and the very future of the Native Hawaiian people. Larry Kawaauhau understands that without addressing this fundamental issue, other efforts to improve the lives of Hawaiians will remain superficial. His advocacy serves as a constant reminder that the past is not truly past until justice is served, and that the land, or 'āina, is central to the Hawaiian identity.
Transparency and Trust: Larry's Commitment
In an era where public trust in institutions and elected officials is often fragile, a commitment to transparency becomes paramount. Larry Kawaauhau's stance on this vital principle is evident in his support for initiatives that foster openness and accountability. The concept of "Open expenditures is part of our commitment to improving transparency by providing a guided view through complex financial information," aligns perfectly with the values he espouses, such as trustworthiness, which he brings from his military background.
For a public servant, especially one aspiring to manage public funds and resources within an entity like the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, transparency in financial dealings is non-negotiable. It ensures that decisions are made in the best interest of the beneficiaries, not for personal gain or hidden agendas. Kawaauhau's emphasis on this aspect suggests a belief in good governance and a desire to build confidence among the electorate and the Native Hawaiian community that OHA's resources are being managed responsibly and ethically. This commitment to clarity in complex financial matters reflects a broader dedication to ethical leadership and sound stewardship, vital for any organization serving the public good.
Connecting with the Community: Larry Kawaauhau's Presence
Beyond the formal structures of elections and board meetings, Larry Kawaauhau maintains a presence within the broader community and professional networks. In today's interconnected world, platforms like LinkedIn serve as crucial bridges between public figures and their constituents, offering insights into their professional background and affiliations. "View Larry Kawaauhau’s profile on LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional community," is a direct invitation to explore his professional journey. The fact that he has "1 job listed on their profile" and is part of a "professional community of 1 billion members" indicates a deliberate effort to maintain a public professional identity, allowing interested parties to "see the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Larry’s" experiences and connections.
This digital presence complements his physical engagement, such as his role in calling a Board of Directors' meeting. It allows for a broader reach, enabling individuals from across the islands and beyond to learn about his background, his skills, and his commitment. In a state where "voters from all islands can vote for" OHA trustees, a comprehensive and accessible public profile is essential for building awareness and trust among a diverse electorate. It demonstrates a willingness to be open and accountable, providing a window into his professional life that reinforces his suitability for public office.
Beyond the Ballot Box
While elections are critical, the impact of a public figure often extends far beyond the ballot box. Larry Kawaauhau's continued advocacy, even after electoral setbacks, underscores a deep-seated commitment to the issues he champions. His focus on "full reparation of the 1893 illegal overthrow and full inventory of lands confiscated after 1893" is not merely an election slogan; it is a lifelong pursuit. This unwavering dedication ensures that the conversation around Native Hawaiian land rights and historical justice remains at the forefront of public consciousness.
His involvement in community meetings, as indicated by his role in calling a Board of Directors' meeting, shows a hands-on approach to engagement. These interactions, whether formal or informal, are crucial for understanding the pulse of the community, gathering feedback, and building consensus around complex issues. For those seeking to "make an informed decision before you vote," exploring a candidate's full engagement—both online and offline—provides a more holistic picture of their dedication and capabilities. Larry Kawaauhau's sustained efforts, regardless of immediate electoral outcomes, solidify his role as a persistent voice for Native Hawaiian rights.
The Enduring Fight for Justice
The journey of Larry Kawaauhau in Hawaiian politics and advocacy is a microcosm of the larger, enduring fight for justice faced by Native Hawaiians. His repeated candidacies for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees, despite previous losses, speak to a profound resilience and an unwavering commitment to his people and their ancestral lands. The issues he champions—particularly the "full reparation of the 1893 illegal overthrow and full inventory of lands confiscated after 1893"—are not fleeting political talking points but represent the very core of Native Hawaiian identity, sovereignty, and well-being.
The fact that Native Hawaiians are "facing the ongoing issue of being deprived of their ancestral lands, with their Hawaii being sold repeatedly to benefit others instead of" themselves, highlights the urgency and gravity of Kawaauhau's mission. His military background, instilling values of loyalty and trustworthiness, provides a solid foundation for his public service. His consistent efforts to fulfill the OHA's mission, coupled with his emphasis on transparency through initiatives like "open expenditures," demonstrate a comprehensive approach to leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the community.
While the 2024 primary election saw him "lost in the primary on August 10, 2024," his presence in the race, alongside a crowded field of other dedicated individuals like Keli’i Akina and Lei Ahu Isa, ensures that critical discussions about land, culture, and self-determination continue to gain prominence. For anyone interested in the future of Hawaiʻi and the rights of its indigenous people, figures like Larry Kawaauhau serve as vital guides. His story is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of justice is often a marathon, not a sprint, requiring persistent effort, clear vision, and an unshakeable belief in the righteousness of the cause.
To truly understand the complexities of Hawaiian politics and the ongoing struggle for Native Hawaiian rights, it is essential to engage with the narratives of individuals like Larry Kawaauhau. His dedication serves as an inspiration for continued advocacy and a call to action for all who believe in equity and historical redress. We encourage you to delve deeper into the issues he champions, explore resources like Civil Beat’s elections guide for general information, and consider how you can contribute to the ongoing dialogue about justice in Hawaiʻi.
