Today we celebrate our country’s kū’oko’a (pronounced: koo-ohkoh-ah) or freedom. The 4th of July holiday is meant to celebrate our freedom from British rule. But for Hawaii, freedom has different roots.

Hawaii was first discovered in 1778 by Captain James Cook originally named Hawaii, the “Sandwich Islands” after the British Earl of Sandwich. But it wasn’t until November 28th, 1843 that Hawaii became an independent Nation state*. 

We spend a lot of the day celebrating with parades, BBQs, ohana and fireworks. But freedom is at the heart of our celebrations.

How are you celebrating your freedom today?

Happy 4th of July from the She Lives Aloha Ohana. 

*Source: https://history.state.gov/countries/hawaii

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