This season of Offshore Podcast, Far From Home, has been exploring the Hawaiian diaspora in history and the present. The throughlines of the harm caused by colonialism and capitalism and the resilience of Hawaiians as they are forced to leave home are prominent but so are the powerful small moments that bring these stories to life. The stories are surprising, from the complex situations created by Hawaiians interacting with First Nations or Native American peoples to the undervalued contributions of Hawaiians to many music traditions. The solidarity between Hawaiians and African Americans during the American Civil War seems especially poignant at this time. There have been 5 episodes released so far and each one is a moving and enlightening listen.
Nearly half of all Native Hawaiians now live outside of Hawaii. It’s a staggering number that raises questions about what Hawaii will be like in coming years, and how Native Hawaiians will carry their islands with them to far flung places.
Episode 1: Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Turns out these are questions that go back centuries. And are a part of Hawaii and American history that few people have heard.
