This weekend’s Malalo i ka Po Lani , Culture Night on Mauna Kea features retired Mauna Kea ranger Kimo Pihana. A living bridge between cultures, Pihana, also a kahuna pule, will speak Saturday evening, January 21, at 6:00 pm in the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy lecture room, on his unique role. Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian), Pihana is also a Hawaiian cultural activist who has spent the last twenty years becoming more involved in the culture in which he grew up.
As a kahuna pule, Pihana has responsibilities for and to Mauna Kea, considered a sacred site and spiritual center for many Hawaiians. The highest point in the Pacific Basin, the mountain rises 33,000 feet from the ocean floor to tower 13,796 feet above the waves. Also known as Mauna-o-Wakea, in some traditions it is considered a living altar of Wakea, the Sky Father and ancient progenitor of the Hawaiian people. And, it is the home of Poli`ahu, the snow goddess.
As a ranger, Pihana was responsible for helping people to stay safe while on the mountain, and helping to protect the mountain from the overly enthusiastic visitor.
Each month, a different Cultural Practitioner shares perspectives on an aspect of Hawaiian culture, history, and or arts relating to the natural history of Maunakea. The “Malalo o ka Po Lani” cultural program is held on the third Saturday of every month in the Ellison Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station’s presentation room at the 9,300 ft eleveation on Mauna Kea. For more information on programs at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station please visit our web site: www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis or call us at (808) 961-2180.
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