Kamakahukilani
Deceased Person
1935 – 1999
Who was Kamakahukilani?
Kamakahukilani Von Oelhoffen was a Kanaka Maoli educator, poet, and activist known for her repeated assertion of the rights of indigenous cultural practice. "Walking, Talking Education" was Kamaka's motto, along with other distinctive phrases, such as "Long Live Life."
Kamakahukilani was a contemporary of and close friend to Kawaipuna Prejean. Both were students of the legendary Pilahi Paki. Kamaka, Kawaipuna, and their friend Liko Martin travelled extensively throughout the continental U.S. and beyond, sharing music and culture with other activists and indigenous peoples worldwide.
Born Elizabeth Kamakahukilani Von Oelhoffen, she grew up in the housing projects of Palolo Valley. Her childhood friends included singer Kui Lee. Her mother was an activist, though she had to do this in hiding. During the "Red Scare", her family hid haole socialists in their small home. Kamaka's schoolteacher, Gottfried Seitz, whom she described as an important mentor to the children of Palolo, was among those persecuted; his persecution was what inspired her to become an activist herself.
Her genealogy came from an ancient navigational line; hence the name "Kamakahukilani"
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