ISLAND VOICES
Schools' admission preference is justified
By George Ariyoshi
Former governor of Hawai'i
The board of trustees and the acting CEO of Kamehameha Schools have defended the schools' policy of offering admissions preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry as an issue of social justice. They have explained how their mission to improve the capability and well-being of Hawaiians through education lifts society as a whole, and have declared that the work must continue until Hawaiian well-being is fully restored.
I agree.
Education is a crucial component of a healthy society. It is a great equalizer. It improves and empowers lives of individuals. That educated individual becomes a better person, a better parent and provider, a contributing member rather than a burden and a drag on society.
That is why all of us must support every public and private school, including Kamehameha Schools. The individual benefits, but so does the entire community.
Kamehameha Schools must also teach the values and cultures that build self-worth in being Hawaiian. It must develop a sense of pride in their ancestors, who were warm, caring and sharing people. This 'ohana and the aloha spirit represent Hawaiian values.
Hawai'i is so often referred to as a "melting pot." I prefer to think of Hawai'i as a "mixing pot" where individuals retain their individual identities and cultures but touch and share them with others. Like a tasty stew, all the ingredients remain identifiable, but each contributes to its rich flavor. This exposure of one's culture to others makes our society more understanding and tolerant. That is the magic that unites this very diverse community.
Accordingly, each group must strive to retain its culture, and Kamehameha Schools must be involved in this effort.
I look forward to the fruits of Kamehameha's efforts when it educates and develops good Hawaiian role models so that succeeding generations need not be reminded of failures but be inspired by successes.
Hawaiians are now reclaiming some of the pride that has been so painfully diminished. But they are not yet there. Perhaps when they get there, we can think of helping others.
