Laau Loa Kapu (All Traditional Medicine is Sacred)

The Laau Loa Kapu project is a no-cost Laau Lapaau instructional program led by Kahuna Laau Lapaau Roddy Kamawaelualani Kawehi Akau the recognized cultural steward of Moanalua, lineal descendent of the original valley kahuna, and haumana of Papa Henry Auwae.

Haumana will complete a 12-month intensive Laau Lapaau program based on the themes of Hoolohe, Hoomakaukau, Hoolauna i ka mea maikai, Hoomaikai akahai, and Hoomanawanui (Perception, Readiness, Sacrifice, Respect, and Patience). Haumana will learn proper protocol, harvesting, and usage for various laau, as well as adopt a laau lapaau lifestyle. Spaces are limited.

Instruction will be held on site in Kamananui Valley, Moanalua Valley Park, and at Keawemalia, a traditional hale located in the area. Hale o Keawemalia was built entirely through volunteer labor and gathered materials under the guidance of haumana, master hale builder, and board president Isaiah Burch.

The Laau Loa Kapu project will provide in-person, hands on training and one-on-one mentorship with Kahu Roddy Akau. Participants in the program will be expected to complete strenuous hikes in Kamananui Valley, volunteer in the conservation areas at the hale and around Moanalua, attend bi-weekly in-person meetings, and complete assigned laau projects.

The project described was supported by Grant Number 90NA8502 from Administration for Native Americans. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors Kalehuaikawai and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Administration for Children and Families, Administration for Native Americans, or HHS.