Native Hawaiian leadership is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses a rich history, cultural traditions, and modern-day challenges. As an expert in Native Hawaiian leadership, I have had the privilege of working closely with many Native Hawaiian leaders and observing their decision-making processes. In this article, I will share my insights on how Native Hawaiian leaders make decisions and the factors that influence their choices.
The Importance of Culture and Tradition
One of the key aspects of Native Hawaiian leadership is the deep connection to culture and tradition. For Native Hawaiians, culture is not just a set of beliefs and practices, but it is a way of life that guides their actions and decisions.This is especially true for Native Hawaiian leaders who are responsible for making decisions that impact their communities. Native Hawaiian leaders often consult with cultural advisors and elders before making important decisions. They seek guidance from their ancestors and draw upon the wisdom passed down through generations. This ensures that their decisions are aligned with the values and principles of their culture. Furthermore, Native Hawaiian leaders understand the importance of preserving their cultural heritage for future generations. This means that they consider the long-term implications of their decisions and strive to make choices that will benefit their community in the years to come.
The Role of Community Input
Native Hawaiian leaders recognize that they do not make decisions in isolation.They understand the importance of community input and actively seek out the opinions and perspectives of those they serve. This is especially true for decisions that have a significant impact on the community. Community input is sought through various means such as town hall meetings, surveys, and focus groups. Native Hawaiian leaders listen to the concerns and suggestions of community members and take them into consideration when making decisions. This not only ensures that the decisions are in line with the needs and desires of the community but also fosters a sense of inclusivity and collaboration. Moreover, Native Hawaiian leaders understand that their decisions have a ripple effect on the community and therefore, they strive to involve community members in the decision-making process.
This not only strengthens the decision but also builds trust and transparency between the leaders and the community.
The Influence of Western Systems
While culture and community input play a significant role in the decision-making process of Native Hawaiian leaders, it is important to acknowledge the influence of Western systems. With colonization, Native Hawaiians were introduced to Western forms of governance and decision-making processes. Today, many Native Hawaiian leaders hold positions in government and other institutions that require them to navigate within Western systems. This means that they must balance their cultural values with the expectations and requirements of these systems. This can sometimes create tension and challenges for Native Hawaiian leaders as they strive to make decisions that are in line with their culture while also meeting the demands of Western systems. However, Native Hawaiian leaders have found ways to incorporate their cultural values into these systems.For example, some have implemented traditional practices such as hoʻoponopono (a conflict resolution process) within government meetings to address issues and make decisions collectively.
The Impact of Historical Trauma
Another important factor that influences the decision-making process of Native Hawaiian leaders is historical trauma. The colonization of Hawaii has had a lasting impact on the Native Hawaiian community, resulting in intergenerational trauma and loss of cultural identity. This trauma can manifest in various ways, including a lack of trust in government institutions and a reluctance to participate in decision-making processes. As a result, Native Hawaiian leaders must be mindful of this trauma and work towards healing and rebuilding trust within their communities. Furthermore, historical trauma can also influence the decisions made by Native Hawaiian leaders. They may be more inclined to make decisions that prioritize the well-being and preservation of their culture and community, rather than solely focusing on economic or political gains.The Importance of Collaboration
Collaboration is a fundamental aspect of Native Hawaiian leadership.Native Hawaiian leaders understand that they cannot make decisions alone and must work together with other leaders and community members to achieve their goals. This collaborative approach is rooted in the concept of ʻohana (family) and the belief that everyone has a role to play in decision-making. This means that Native Hawaiian leaders actively seek out partnerships and alliances with other leaders and organizations to address issues and make decisions that benefit the community as a whole.