Understanding Hoʻiwai & Scope

The report’s title, Hoʻiwai (to return and restore the waters) describes the framework that guides the non-profit organization ʻEkolu Mea Nui in transforming the criminal justice system into a restorative model that strengthens the health and well-being of paʻahao* rather than discarding them from society for their crimes. 

This report is a starting point in this conversation because Native Hawaiians face unique issues in their homeland. We recognize this is part of a more extensive, ongoing dialogue about diversity and equity in Hawaiʻi, and we encourage complementary research and reporting on other communities’ experiences. While this report focuses on Native Hawaiian communities, we acknowledge the equally important over-incarceration of the Micronesian and Black/African-descent communities in Hawai’i. The full complexity of these issues and stakeholders merits a more comprehensive analysis beyond the scope of this document.

Collaborating Funder Partners

Hawai’i People’s Fund provides vital support and resources to community-based organizations while championing social justice initiatives. The fund’s deep connections within the community and expertise in supporting local initiatives have been instrumental in guiding this collaborative effort.

Gerbode Foundation seeks to deepen its understanding of the systemic challenges facing Native Hawaiians in their ancestral homeland. This commitment aligns with New Breath Foundation’s mission to support Native Hawaiian-led organizations, which first led to their partnership with the Hawai’i People’s Fund.