Hawaiian Baby Names for Non-Hawaiians? Is It OKAY?

[@FoodFiend]

I personally don't care what someone's name is. I'm part Native Hawaiian even though I don't look like it. Most of my family have graduated from Kamehameha and the other ethnicities we have can be traced 6 generations in Hawaii. I don't have a Hawaiian name and my son doesn't either. Everyone thinks I'm 100% Japanese and I'm not even Japanese. So people will think what they will. As long as a parent put thought into the name and not take it off a sign like you said. It's kind of like non Asians getting silly Kanji tattoos that have silly meanings or don't even mean what they thought it meant. As long as your kids don't lie and claim to be Native Hawaiian later on in life and know the reason why they were named what they were, it's perfectly fine in my opinion.

[@kimberleyike2168]

People think I'm Japanese too because of my last name. I just go with it and wait for the shocked look on faces when they see I'm not. Its hysterical 🤣 😂

[@Sarah-pj2eh]

I’m so happy I found this video! I am struuuugling with owning wanting to name our daughter Leilani; I’m white, my partner is 100% Salvadoran, so, she will be a mixed baby with 0 ties to Hawaii; we don’t live there either. My partner doesn’t feel any fear of wanting to name our daughter, but I feel so much guilt. I know that my European ancestors played a big part in the oppression of Native and Hawaiin people, and while I’m not sure of El Salvador and their relationship / history with Hawaii, I have a hard time swallowing that our mixed baby with European roots will be named after a culture that was oppressed by my ancestors. My huge question is if there’s any room for a break knowing that my husband is not white? It feels like a tricky 50/50 thing; it’s like we’re damned if we do but we’re also not so damned if we do? He found the name and was super excited about it, and I also love it especially when I found out it’s also the name of a flower that grows in Hawaii, and she will be a spring baby. I’ve mentioned my discomfort to him, and then that being said, it feels unfair to let my guilt get in the way of a name we both love. He also struggles with my hesitation because his name is Kevin, and that name has 0 connection to his culture; I do understand though that the difference there is opresión, but it almost feels more wrong to try and talk him out of the name because of my shame and guilt, especially when I also love the name, and wish to only let this be an opportunity to teach our daughter the significance of her differentiating history in relationship to such a beautiful land and culture that deserves to be recognized; I will never dress her up in a hula skirt / adopt any hawaiin lifestyle for her, I simply honor the beauty of the name and the land it has roots in, as my partner does as well

[@alyssadiceflipper5201]

Picking names for babies is fun and also stressful. We did know that we wanted to honor my husband's Hawaiian lineage and my Japanese, so we choose Kai for the boy and Aiko for our girl. The only thing I heard was that you could not use a name linked to a Ali'i family unless you were closely related. My husband's line is connected to the Warrior Chief Kanaina I and High Chief Charles Kanaina so the name Kanaina is usually given to the first born child. Kanaina was also spelled Kainaina so we shortened it. Plus Kai was easy for my parents to say it. Congrats on Baby #2!!!!!!

[@kailanicapelouto2686]

I’ve got Hawaiian blood and a Hawaiian name born and raised in Hawaii. it’s hard for some people to pronounce but the meaning behind it is fun to explain to new people and I’ve learned to love it

[@TranTran-qk7ec]

I think this a lovely gesture…it’s a tribute to the islands and the rich Hawaiian culture 🌈

[@rachelechols5041]

My fiancé is half Hawaiian. I have take my time to learn about the culture and the values are truly what I’d want to instill upon our children. Given that, we’ve discussed Hawaiian middle names and trying to learn the language. Our children will be German, Irish, Japanese, and Hawaiian predominately. They will still be able to visit Germany, Ireland, and Japan and get immersed in there culture and heritage 50 years from now. But I don’t know if they will be able to do that for Hawaii. I want to give them something that they can carry with them that connects them to Hawaii and their heritage no matter what happens or where they go in the future. I think it mostly boils down to if the naming is done out of respect for the culture with an understanding of human dynamics and how the name may affect the child’s life versus just doing it because it’s something you enjoy.

[@Lopezflies888]

Yeah I know that's a lot of kids have Hawaiian middle names if they're Hawaiian or Japanese middle names if they're Japanese but American first names I don't know it's a personal thing

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing. It's always great when we can find ways to help our kids connect with their culture.

[@MrSupertwo]

I love Hawaii. I love the culture and the people. The encouraging messages here from Native Hawaiians is proof to me my love is in the right place. Cultural appropriation is something I welcome being Chinese. I love when people love our culture. People culturally appropriate usually because they love something and not the other way around. But, sometimes people are upset. In this life someone will always be upset. Show them love and move on with your life. Thank you for this channel. I've learnt so much from it.

[@kennoma7998]

We laboured a long time to select the proper Japanese names and the kanji for our two boys so I can relate to the time and care that you and your wife spent for your sons. Good topic, thanks.

[@belindan4974]

🌴 Didn’t think it would be an issue. You’re a local. A loving parent. You name them in/with love. 🥰 Congratulations on your second baby, btw. 🤗 Much aloha. 🌴

[@opshn5233]

The thought you and your wife put into this makes me so happy.

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

Here's the interesting things about Hawaii's people. In many instances, you can't tell who's Native Hawaiian. I know MANY people who look 100% Asian or 100% Caucasian, yet they got Native Hawaiian blood. I know a Caucasian guy who looks 100% Caucasian and has a Caucasian last name, yet he got Native Hawaiian blood. Yet growing up, he's been continuously called "haole" and was told to "Go back mainland!" by locals, including Native Hawaiians. I know TONS of people who look 100% Asian. I'm talking they look like they're from Korea or Japan, yet they got Kanaka bloodline. Growing up in Hawaii, a person who is Caucasian/Hawaiian, but who looks 100% Caucasian, will, generally, have a tougher time than a Chinese/Filipino person, who has zero Native Hawaiian blood. And the Chinese/Filipino person will generally "look more Hawaiian" than many Caucasian/Hawaiian people. I have been asked many times in my life, "Are you Native Hawaiian?" And the reason they ask me this is because, you can't tell what I am. Like many people in Hawaii, I could pass for a number of different races. The first thing that comes to my mind when asked this is, "Why do you want to know? Are you gonna treat me differently based on knowing whether I am Native Hawaiian or not?"

[@HelloFromHawaii]

It's getting harder to tell who is Hawaiian. Gotta take them for their word when they tell you

[@kristinesharp6286]

I realize it’s a thing in Hawaii, but why on earth does it matter at the end of the day?

[@mattmiller3244]

You guys give him a lovely Hawaiian name. It is deeply respectful of the Hawaiian culture. My two cents.

[@randolphvalparaiso3434]

My grandson and granddaughter have Hawaiian names, KOA and Kelela. My daugther is not from Hawaii, but I am. She didn't want to lose the connection from the Hawiian Islands and the relatives still living in Hawaii. both of them have gone thru primary-intermediate-High School, and College, no problems with them having Hawaii names

[@Puna_G]

Born & raised Hawai'i, 100% Local, Podagee, Filipino, Hawaiian, Chinese. Haole wife, both our kids have Hawaiian middle names. CONGRATULATIONS on the new edition!!!! Blessings.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Warning, strong opinions ahead: I really like this topic. Thank you for it! Now, it might be perceived as being controversial, though, which I THINK IS ... A-OK. I love Hawai'ian names, actually. I have an inherent positive bias towards them. I think Hawai'ian names are beautiful sounding names. I am also all for giving babies names which both of their parents love. But, the above said, people might perceive people, who have Hawai'ian names as somehow being totally representational of the islands, and knowing all about the state, its history and etc. In other words, people who have Hawai'ian names might feel burdened to carry the mantle of Hawai'i on their shoulders, and might feel too obligated to be a total font of knowledge about the state, its people, its language, its history, and etc.

[@Kaloi.Filmmaking.Studio]

Aloha. Our Hawaiian names are more than just labels. They carry the mana, the spiritual energy, of our lineage and the life force of our land. They are deeply rooted in our history, reflecting our connection to our ancestors and the sacred 'āina. Now, when a non-Hawaiian chooses to use a Hawaiian name without fully understanding its profound meaning and spiritual significance, it feels like another chapter in the long history of outsiders exploiting our culture. Just as our land, our traditions, and our language have been co-opted and commercialized, so too are our names when used without due respect. Remember, our ancestors fought hard for our rights, for our culture, and for our language. Even in the face of adversity following the 1893 overthrow, we've persevered, keeping our cultural traditions alive. Our names are a testament to that resilience and to the deep spiritual and cultural ties that bind us as a community. So, it's not just about a name. It's about respecting the struggle, honoring the past, and preserving the integrity of our culture. Non-Hawaiians naming their children with Hawaiian names without understanding this context feels like an undermining of our history and identity. It's not about gatekeeping, but about asking for respect and understanding for our culture, our history, and our identity. That is my strong stance

[@janclimo2284]

I think it's great that both of you took the time to consciously think about the names you gave your children. I'm proud of my heritage & love the names of my Grandpa & uncles. Yutaka, Kiyoshi, Tokuo, & Akio... I love & miss you very much

[@vp3970]

Most names are given as family names like after an auntie, and special event. The queen had two of her names within her full name after events or occurrences. You should have taken you children to an uncle or auntie (native, calabash) and ask for a name. Puakea Noglemeir got his name from Auntie Ma’iki Lake. Puakea is German. This calabash Hawaiian uncle would have give them appropriate name using his mana. When other kids ask about the name what they could say is my - don’t answer the question if they are Hawaiian- but rather have them say my Hawaiian uncle gave me that name. I gave all my children and grandchildren names this way my daughter was given the name of her grand aunt who had died at my daughter’s birth. As an Hawaiian I would not be opposed to none Hawaiians taking Hawaiian names, many who are Hanai but not Hawaiian have Hawaiian names. The Hawaiian custom in giving.names is tricky because some names are kapu. Better to have someone give a name. BTW. Puakea means white flower and it matches him, his ano. The name was Auntie Ma’iki’s Hawaiian name.🌺

[@rickchapman3051]

Your showing respect and I support your decision 100%

[@deesayers743]

I'm multi-race and my mom gave me a Greek name (I'm not Greek) my middle name is Hawaiian ( I'm part Hawaiian) and my last name is portuguese. I have 5 children and their names have significancy to me. It does not matter which "Cultural hat" you pull a name from if it's significant to you it means something and that's the story you'll tell your child. Malama Pono!

[@wilfredmotosue2615]

I chose a name that I think my son will like when he gets to be an adult. I didn't give him a Japanese middle name even though he's Japanese, cause I never used my middle Japanese name but gave him a popular American name. I didn't like my first name so that's why I gave him likable, popular names for many years for his first and middle names. So now he got 2 chances to like and use a name he likes the best. Got to watch what name you give cause he can be teased by others when they are children.

[@sophiehearthi6998]

I named my niece “ Aloha” and she live in Cambodia. I named her “ Aloha “ because I love the meanings of “ Aloha” and Hawaii😁

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Well done! I love the word "Aloha" and what it means / stands for.

[@Critique808]

There's a community (small town) in Oregon named Aloha. Lol

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

@@Critique808 Fantastic! 👍

[@SunnyIlha]

That is true Hawaiian way! Why you did that, with that word-name! (It was the meaning of the Name). This is also a very pretty name for a Girl. *Aloha* is a very, very pretty name for a Girl.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

@@SunnyIlha Aloha is a beautiful idea for a name. We agree.

[@TropicalDestinationsChannel]

Congratulation on the birth of your son. I think it's wonderful that you & your wife gave your sons Hawaiian names and that it has a special meaning in Japanese. 🤙🙂

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Appreciate the comment 🤙

[@airframer120]

For the mainlanders thinking a neutral gender hawaiian name just go with “mahulani” it’ll be 🤩

[@kimberleyike2168]

😂😂

[@2309119]

🤣😅😅

[@shylo-jean]

IYKYK🤣🤣 Mary🤣

[@donclark4639]

I was born in Hawaii. My parents wanted to honor my Hawaiian godfather and gave me part of his 99 letter name as one of my middle names.

[@wesleychun3058]

I think its showing pride of being from the islands, loving, living and appreciating the culture.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@kawikacarlson]

Some good insight. Mahalo. My wife and I are expecting our first together in September and spent a little time picking out a name. We did so before we knew the sex of a child. So, we started with boy and girl names. That gravitated to unisex names, and then to Hawaiian names. We chose Kalani. The whole process took about 10 minutes, and felt completely destined. We tried not to overthink it, and just went with our feelings. Congratulations on your 2nd!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Congratulations on your little one. Kalani is a great name

[@kalihipalama1762]

Native Hawaiians should feel proud and honored that people of other ethnicities would want to give their children Hawaiian names.

[@dagrindzguy4250]

Chris, I like your videos. I believe you to be true and pure of heart, with not a negative bone or intention in your body. I never knew this was an issue, and I do not think that it is. As a haole boy growing up on Kauai in the 80s and 90s I think that my Hawaiian name helped me. I was never bullied or teased about it. I have never heard of that happening. My older brother was born and raised here, but I happened to be born during a short period that my parents had moved to California. It was always awkward for me that my big brother (who also has a Hawaiian name) could say that he was born and raised in Hawaii, but I could not. Yet I was accepted and always treated well. It is the content of the heart that matters, and not the color of one's skin. Both my children are born and raised here, and both have Hawaiian names. They have never had any issues or problems because of their names.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing your experience. Great to hear from someone else who grew up in Hawaii.

[@hazelpiaoed10]

Such an issue with locals. From my name never fitting on test paperwork because it was too long or when teachers would look at the paper that said my FULL name and then back to my face - then repeat that a couple of times. Then at grad when it was crickets when they couldn't say my full given name - then the CHEEHOOS after from family because of your accomplishments, plus they knew folks would be struggling to pronounce my full name. Most times incorrectly, may I add. It's taken me years to grow into my whole name and I've loved the journey. So, Uncle/Auntie to your future boys when they get older... I hope the grow to love their full Hawaiian names too. We come from beautiful people, with a beautiful culture and from beautiful land. On a side note, when I married my Husband my last name now holds 3 letters, I was so excited!!!!! It's gonna be ok, and I hope for your boys it'll better than Okay...

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing your experience. Cheehoo! 🤙

[@hazelpiaoed10]

@@HelloFromHawaii No worries! I agree this is a huge issue - but sometimes we over think things. Some people will get it, others won't, you can't change peoples hearts or minds with out discussion and real talk. This is only the beginning.

[@ceciliapiani8619]

Hi Chris. I watch you all the way from Florida in preparation for my soon to happen return to Hawaii after 20 years away on the mainland and abroad. the best part of the video is understanding how you are getting closer and closer to becoming -yourself- a true Hawaiian!! Aloha and God bless your "made in Hawai'i keiki kane. Aloha, Cecilia.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the comment. It will be quite the adjustment when you return home. A lot has changed. 😄

[@kithg]

Thank you, as always, for the thought you put into this video. Your boys - Congratulations! - are lucky to have folks who put so much love into their names. What matters in a name? As Johnny Cash musically observed, a boy named Sue would have problems in school, as a girl might if she was called A common “boy’s” name. In some communities, the stress is on giving a child a family name, and in others, it’s in giving that baby a name unique to them alone. In my case, I was given a long first name to go with my short last one. It fit on no known standardized form. It was, however, in all other respects, a completely standard British Isles/American name. Yet still, in grade school, I had teachers insist that I answer to their own names for me. There were classmates who deliberately misspelled it. “Your name is taller than you are!” was a common taunt. Your boys are going to get teased - if not about their names, about something else. That’s youth. But you have given them a magic weapon - they can talk to you about it.

[@dennistani1986]

Thanks for educating us about this topic. As a guy from California, I had no idea this was an issue in Hawaii, let alone the fact that some people are sensitive to this idea. I think you made the right decision and hope people will understand.

[@chrystland]

I can totally relate. I’m a non-Hawaiian born and raised in Hawaii. I wanted to choose a Hawaiian name for my daughter, but my mom said we couldn’t because we weren’t native Hawaiian. We chose the name Kohana, which means small flower in Japanese instead. However, I liked that it sounds Hawaiian. Later I came across a brand of Hawaiian rum called Kohana!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Great name

[@MrPhante]

I used to be called Kimo when I was a baby when my parents lived in Hawaii for a brief time. It was a nickname and not one that stuck with me, but the story of my parents saying that they called me that that seemed to make me want to understand more about Hawaii and grow to feel somehow connected to Hawaii. I hope your kid grows to have the same connection and respect as well 🙏

[@tracyalan7201]

I liked it. I laughed about being stumped on the why from the wife. Good responses on the reasons and the duality of importance of Hawaii & Japan. Make sure the boys annotate your reasonings for their great grandchildren in the family genealogy, so that their grandkids don't stump them on why they were named with those names.

[@sheriandreas8260]

Hello From Hawaii…the Hawaiian language sounds so beautiful. For some, a child’s name is a reminder of love & respect for a relative or a place & I can tell you love & respect Hawaii & the Hawaiian culture. Thank you for this video. Have a beautiful day!!

[@SaltyTribeCo]

I’ve not been to Hawaii yet, but I am Hawaiian on my father’s side (he’s hapa) Our children have two middle names and one of them is Hawaiian.

[@Cruisingfoodies]

Naming children is such a tough one nowadays. Any name out of respect for another person, nationality or heritage is great imo. Our kids have both Italian and Korean names and each side of the family calls them something different. Then their friends use all nicknames lol.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Thanks for sharing. Great that they have dual names and nicknames 😆

[@AngloFrancoDane]

Congratulations on the birth of your second child!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Thank you

[@keithfreitas2983]

Many non-Hawaiian parents have named their children because of the Disney Hawaiian movies not even knowing the meaning of the name. My kids and grandkids have Hawaiian middle names along with a Japanese name. They are Portuguese Japanese Chinese Hawaiian. This also goes with the Kakau (Hawaiian tattoo). Many people get the tattoo not knowing what it means or it's in the wrong place on the body.

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

Very true. Get plenty of people who got tattoos of Asian characters, and they don't even know the true meaning. What's worse is that some of the tattoos aren't even written correctly!

[@tonypacheco251]

I'm not certain of the current Hawaiian Culture, but the past required permission from an elder family member, usually a Tutu (Grand Parent) in the use of a Hawaiian Name. Granting or denying permission was based on any known history of the name, positive or negative, within the family, to include the 'calabash' or extended family. Often an extension (suffix) of the name was added, i.e., lani, nani, ka, na. As in the name Kaleo (denied); as in Kaleolani (granted). I believe the practice continues in the true Hawaiian Culture today. In your instance, you mentioned asking a native on their thoughts on the matter, but you decided against it. I think you should have. Whatever, I support your final decision. Interesting topic. Kudos!

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

I agree with much of your comments, but as Chris said, he didn't feel it would make a difference if he asked one of his Native Hawaiian friends if it was "Ok" because, inevitably, you will never get a 100% consensus anyway. One Hawaiian may say it's perfectly fine, while another will be strongly against it. I got a nephew who is not Hawaiian, but who was given a Hawaiian name by his Godfather, who is Native Hawaiian. Just like the TMT. You got Hawaiians who are against it, and you got Hawaiian who support it. So it's a complicated issue, just like many things in life. There are no simple answers, and people will not agree. But the thing I find very different between people in Hawaii from the past vs. people today is that, in that in the past people could disagree strongly on certain topics, but they could still have respect for one another, and they could still remain friends. Today, we got "cancel culture", where, if you don't agree with me one just one issue, then we ain't friends no more!! I've seen families and friends break apart due to disagreements over politics, the pandemic, etc. It's sad.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Great comment on the past vs present regarding disagreements. It's too bad we can't just talk story with respect, no matter if in agreement or not

[@Keliiyamashita]

Is there first names Hawaiian? If it is, that’s interesting. The only issue I have is people will assume that they are native since most Hawaiian named people living here are. Just tell the boys no tell because no one will ask. We all mixed plate. They are born here, no worries! 🤙🏽

[@arturohull14161]

I prefer Spanish, Portuguese and Italian names. I’m Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Dutch born and raised on the Mainland but I have big respect for Hawai’i. My favorite names are Rodrigo,Fernando , Alonso, and Antonio. I just prefer names from my own cultures especially Spanish names.

[@merrywalsh2809]

My haole daughters, raised on Maui, gave their children haole names. I asked why they did not give a Hawaiian name, and both of them said “because we are not Hawaiian.” This, even though one grand is 1/8th Hawaiian. Myself, I would have considered a Hawaiian name. Many people around the world pull names from beloved areas. So you see, there is disagreement even within families. To each, his own.

[@jackkapua4129]

Mahalo for sharing. I truly appreciate your input on Hawaiian names. You've shown great respect for our language. 1st you don't to be Hawaiian to receive a Hawaiian name. Being born in Hawaii you are automatically a child of Hawaii. You've given your children the best gift ever by being born in Hawaii. Your research is right. Your explanation was very thorough and on spot. Who ever you talked to has given the gift to you for your children the spirit. 2nd your children may not Hawaiian by blood. But, bt spirit they are both into. You can't get from education or a piece of paper. It's in the air. Komo mai my brahda to our Hawaiian family

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the thoughtful comment. Appreciate it.

[@jackkapua4129]

You welcome. It was my pleasure. I appreciate you being respectable. I don't believe I made any sense in my text. Lol, I didn't reread on explaining myself. With lots of errors. Guess you kinda understood and read btwn the lines. I'm such a goof ball. 🤪bla bla bla

[@armandosierra7417]

I have never frowned upon any Non-Hawaiian using a Hawaiian name. I think it is a beautiful thing to do. I am part Hawaiian and graduated from Kamehameha Schools. My great grandmother was pure Hawaiian. I'm also a missionary descendant of Edward Bailey of Maui. The Bailey home (Hale Ho'ike'ike) is located in Wailuku. He had five sons and was a missionary teacher and master painter. His oldest son, Edward Hubbard Bailey, who I get my lineage from, married a pure Hawaiian by the name of Emily Kania. My Hawaiian name is kealohalani, which means gift from heaven. The meaning of the name is important too. My nieces' Hawaiian name is "Puanani", which means beautiful flower. Her full name is Lisa Puanani Sierra. Lisa is the daughter of my older brother and does not have Hawaiian blood. My older brothers were hanai (adopted) by my mother from my dad's previous marriage. They do not have Hawaiian blood but were born and raised in Hawaii, just like you. All of their children have Hawaiian names: Aulani; Leinani; Puanani; Kaimana; Kaleo. One of my brothers married a part Hawaiian local girl and they decided to give all their children Hawaiian names. So, to make a long story short, your decision to give your boys Hawaiian names is a beautiful thing. It shows your appreciation of our Hawaiian culture and language. By the way, congratulations on 30K subscribers. I only have 1.3K subscribers and have been posting videos for the past 4 months. My videos focus more on "Old Hawaii" pictures and local or Hawaiian culture. Mahalo nui loa for this video.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing. And keep up with the videos.

[@kevinhsu8184]

If I have a boy in Hawaii, and I really want him to have an Hawaiian name, I would have a typical American name as first name and Hawaiian name as his middle name. The reason would be kids can be mean and I wouldn't want to have people possibly bully my boy simply because of a name. When he grows up and decided that he wants to go by his middle name, then it's up to him. Hopefully by then, he would understand that the name callings on internet or in person, reflect a lot about the person who's doing the name calling than about him.

[@MA-zg2pz]

I’m sorry you have to consider/worry about him being bullied about his name. I hope he finds kind peers ❤️

[@StyleshStorm]

oh the topic is about babies. ill never have one so this doesn't apply to me. It'd consider it an honor if mainland parents wanted to name a baby after my people's culture even if they aren't Hawaiian or even local kine style.

[@cesarcanete3402]

I don't know why is this even a topic of discussion. Everyone has a right to name their kids whatever they want regardless of where the name comes from.

[@hori166]

You've thought this through thoroughly, maybe too much. People are going to think what they are going to think. Main thing is both you and your wife are happy. Your wife is very Japanese in that she has given serious thought about how to "kanjitize" your sons' names. All Japanese do this, as do the Chinese. There is one other option that you haven't mentioned which is what my parents elected to do, and that is to make the Hawaiian name a middle name, rather than have it front and center. I have both Hawaiian and Japanese middle names. My mother chose my Japanese name based on a professor she had at UHM, who has a building named after him: Sakamaki Hall. I don't understand why Hawaiians get so upset when non-Hawaiians can actually be their allies. My best friend wrote a book about Kamehameha III, my other friend is fluent in Hawaiian and is the right-hand man of a famous kumu hula and musician. Then there's Barry Flanagan of Hapa. All are haoles. Maybe Hawaiians feel so much has been stolen that they can't trust haoles. It's sad. If anything, Hawaiians should be pissed off at KSBE. In 2022 why is there so much poverty and discontent amongst Hawaiians when KSBE is the wealthiest private charity in the US that exclusively serves children of Hawaiian ancestry, no matter how small the blood quantum? Sad... Lastly, do you think Hawaiians have given Keanu Reeves any grief? He could care less, and so should you.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Good point about Keanu. 2022 was a great year for Native Hawaiian interests, with nearly $1 billion allocated this year for Native Hawaiians.

[@jessearmaline7485]

Chris, I can’t remember if you have explained in a previous video, but what nationality are you?

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Japanese-American

[@jessearmaline7485]

Thank you!

[@vp3970]

What are the names.

[@adox26]

I had a friend whose wife had a twin sister that had a Hawaiian name. In spite of being mainland natives, her parents named her “Napoua” not sure of that spelling, but it was pronounced “Na-poo-ah”.

[@craigpdyer]

Heads up about bullying. I am not sure how it is in Hawaii; however, smaller schools tend to have less bullying.

[@lonosensei5242]

You and me, we have interesting similarities and differences. My wife is also JApanese from JApan. WE also decided to give our keiki HAwaiian names. They also have JApanese names too. Unlike you, I am not from HAwaii but am KAnaka 'Oiwi. My mom met my popolo dad in WAshington DC and I lived 10 years in VA. I gave my kids' names related to nature: the ocean, the land, and the moon. The stories are too long to explain but each is relevant to my wif and I. I dont have a problem with you or someone else giving their children Hawaiian names. People from different cultures have different traditions and customs when it comes to name-giving. Whether it's to honor an ancestor by re-naming, choosing a name from a hero, making a name up creatively with a personal meaning, or choosing a name from another culture, I believe the intention of blessing and giving mana in that inoa (name) is what is key.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing 🤙

[@everettnapihaa6111]

I haven't gone far enough in the 'comments' but what I don't see is the fact we Hawaiians have haole names! I'm Hawaiian and my mother told me since small kid time to the quantum at school...I have Chinese blood that would measure an amount to my baby finger. My first name from my father's best haole friend, my middle name from my father's best Hawaiian friend and then I have another haole name ( I thought was my middle name), but I think it's my father's haole best friend again! Anyway my almost pure Hawaiian with a tincher Chinese(Grandma) on mama side, and two haole names are more common than people think...alot of my school mates also have this. Rest assured this shouldn't even be an issue if you think about all the people in this world that are not haole but have haole names...you're just proper! Somebody mentioned Keanu Reeves...he did have an uncle I think he's from Hawaii Kai before it was called Hawaii Kai and he is also related to a Hawaiian Professor UH! But I shouldn't be the one to explain the details. Stay Kool and healthy, and stay yourself brah!...Just a fun fact, Olympic Ice Skating Champion Kristy Yamaguchi's great grandfather lived Big Island and part of the sugar cane workforce that was slave labor then, and he along with other Japanese workers would sing a song about the "white devil's' while laughing because the haole supervisor' s didn't understand! Ha- ha ha!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing. Great points.

[@happysigns]

I’m not Hawaiian and I have a Hawaiian name. Kailea. I’ve never learned the Hawaiian pronunciation. But I’m interested to know what it is. I don’t know how reliable a source like “Behind the Name” is. And I want to believe the meaning I saw there for my name is true. Sadly, I can’t say with a 100% certainty. It said the meaning was “joyful sea” or “sea of joy”. Is this true? P.S. I’m Canadian. And I love learning about names, their meanings etc. Which site should I visit to learn about Hawaiian names? And which site is the most reliable?

[@HelloFromHawaii]

I can't give any suggestions for websites about Hawaiian names. I know we have some good books in the local library.

[@theresewheeler1498]

A Hawaiian name will be nice and it should mean something that’s part of the Hawaiian culture .,

[@stacycreates24]

Love all you do. Please keep more videos

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@peterykw6562]

I am not Hawaiian and live in the mainland. I have been part of halau for the past 3 yrs learning to dance hula. My Kumu is native Hawaiian. He gave me my Hawaiian name “Hanohano”. I don’t take the name lightly and treasure it. My Kumu not only teaches us the art of dancing hula, but the Hawaiian language, culture, aloha and most importantly respect

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

Awesome story! For your Kumu to give you that name, he must think you are very worthy of it. Such an honor! Use it proudly Mr. Hanohano!

[@peterykw6562]

@@user-sg8kq7ii3y Aloha and Mahalo nui!

[@lightscameraaction2837]

While I don’t see an issue with giving a child a Hawaiian name, I do see a bit more responsibility that comes with the Hawaiian name. The name is like an ambassador of Hawaii and its culture, so people are going to form an opinion of you and Hawaii based on the name whether you live on the island or the mainland. Your average person on the mainland may not know the nuances of who is truly native Hawaiian or just live in Hawaii but they will judge a person by a name, in this particular case a name that “sounds” Hawaiian, so in a sense, they will judge Hawaii based on this guy/gal who has a Hawaiian name. I think one of the things to consider when having a Hawaiian name is a certain responsibility especially if one does not have native Hawaiian blood that one should be prepared to a carry as well. Now with that being said, not saying native Hawaiian with a Hawaiian name are automatically mindful of the responsibilities, some might not care but I think a person who is not native that happens to have a Hawaiian name should be prepared to be good stewards of the name and what it represents, the kanaka, history, and culture.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Well said!

[@MA-zg2pz]

Well if one is not native, isn’t it appropriation to give a cultural specific name to a not native Hawaiian? Some things maybe are sacred and we should respectfully leave to the people who created it. Out of honor for them, you know?

[@lightscameraaction2837]

Most common Hawaiian names that you find in the modern world actually derives from a phonetic translation of English names, for example, the word “Kimo” that Chris posted here on his thumbnail is a Hawaiian translation of the English named “Jim.” Historically the ancient Hawaiians took a very spiritual path approach and deep thought into naming the children, this practice was then changed around the mid 1800s by a decree to give the baby a Christian name and use the Hawaiian name as last names, not to mention those Christian names were sometimes translated into Hawaiian words also so I don’t think it is necessarily a cultural appropriation, I think it depends on the motive too. I don’t think Chris is trying to use the name in any exploitative, disrespectful, or to play on a stereotype, which is generally the definition in terms of cultural appropriation, the reasons he give in a video sounded respectful and a thoughtful manner. But I also see your point, I think there can be a fine line in terms of what can be appropriate but most of the Hawaiian names that are popular do have very generic origins and/or phonetically a Hawaiian translation of English words, I don’t think using these names are cultural appropriation, especially when someone is not claiming to be native Hawaiian but simply love the Hawaiian culture and it’s people and they want to honor that by naming their child by that. And as I stated before, as long as the parents understand what the significance is in terms of using a Hawaiian name and the responsibility it carries, I think that can be one of the ways of honoring the people.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the comment. Appreciate your insight on names carrying certain responsibilities.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

@@MA-zg2pz I disagree. Giving anyone a lovely Hawai'ian name, which has meaning to many, is a way of showing respect for the Hawai'ian ways and culture, too.

[@skymakai]

This seems to be a big issue due to 'cultural appropriation' being a hot topic in some circles. But in reality, cultures and languages have always and always will intermix. I think intention matters and words matter as well, so when using a 'foreign language' to give a name, it's important to consider the weight of the words. For instance, you wouldn't want to name your kid 'Akua', 'Kumu', 'Mana', 'Kahuna', or something that signifies great power and importance... just as you wouldn't name your kid, 'God', 'Spirit', 'Spiritual Leader', etc. Paradoxically, using words like 'Lani', or 'heaven' wouldn't have the same weight, probably because it's SUPER common. In my case, I was named 'Makai', after my father lived on islands for many years before I was born. I've never been given grief about it, but with so many hippies taking Hawaiian words as names, I get a few sideways looks.

[@johnelicker3967]

thanks for sharing and keeping it real

[@SunnyIlha]

Wow awesome! (Born & raised Hawai'i !!)

[@scottsong20]

Love the Hawaiian culture of respect, love and family similar to the Asian cultures that reside on the islands. No shame in sharing a piece of the culture if the intent was to share the upmost respect.

[@ESUSAMEX]

If I were to have a child born in Hawaii, I most likely choose a Hawaiian name as a middle name for him or her. I would like to honor the place of my child's birth. In my family, we do not believe in naming children after someone else. There are no juniors or seniors. Instead, we honor our past and culture by placing the special family name as the middle name. For example, if I were to honor my German grandfather, my son would have an English first name, a German middle name and my surname.

[@rockerwithawalker]

I have an unusual name and childhood was not very fun in school. Oh and you would never know my name inspired from a song "Some Velvet Morning". 'Phaedra' is a name of someone in the song. The variation my parents created came to be Thadrah. My name has no heritage. Except it's from the hippie era. Thanks mom and dad. The schoolyard can be kind of tough when even your name sets you apart. That aside I think parents base their baby naming skills in very high regard in native lands,as these are a continuation of their legacies. These parents chose names to, also, honor those legacies. I think the guy is saying he understands the complications his children may face but named the children to honor Hawaii and the culture. I lived on the Tulalip RES WA for twenty odd years, my kids grew up in the Native American culture,attending pow wow, learning required 'Lushootseed' in elementary school, and ensconced in the culture. We, also, lived in Suquamish,WA. This is where Chief Seattle is buried. It is also a reservation. My mother was an honorary pallbearer at Leo Fryberg's memorial. We were not treated any different because we were not Native,we were treated with respect because that is what we gave them.

[@LilyGazou]

An interesting life you have experienced.

[@hmmmm.3899]

You have a beautiful name!

[@rockerwithawalker]

Well that is kind of you to say,life has been an adventure for sure.

[@heavenbound3665]

Interesting topic. I am Caucasian and lived on Oahu for 14 years. I worked at a medical clinic on the Ewa side. One day the topic came up about who can call their grandmother tutu. And it was the consensus among my coworkers who were local ...some native or part native, some Philipino, some Japanese that only those with Hawaiian blood should be calling their grandmother Tutu. I didn't quite understand that as I was a new grandmother myself and liked the term. But I did respect it and knew it was not my place to determine what was or was not appropriate. Even after that many years I considered myself a guest. I was always treated as ohana and shown a great deal of aloha while I was there. Respect will get you a long way in the islands.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙 Mahalo for sharing

[@richard85121]

Born and raised in Kapahulu with a pure Hawaiian grandmother .. left Hawaii in 78 … now run a hotel company in Asia as I never saw that possibility on my home turf …. Anybody born and raised In Hawaii is a Hawaiian because of understanding and respect for the culture - except Obama … 😎no let the haters affect you .. name your son what you wish … I actually have an Indonesian friend that went UH and named his two sons Keola and Kekoa .. they both get mean Aloha … that’s all that matters 🤙👍🙏

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙 Appreciate the comment

[@StyleshStorm]

57 seconds calabash family let's go.

[@kristinesharp6286]

It is your baby. That gives you the right to name him or her whatever name you want. You are emperor and empress over your child. Let people be mad who enjoy being mad. They will simply assume your child has some Hawaiian way back. That is the typical think a person notices about a person in Hawaii. What ethnicity or combination of ethnicities is the person in front of them. Before gender. Maybe after age as there is great respect of elders. My MIL was 99% sure my husband would not go with a Hawaiian name. But she asked me not to adopt any naming practices from the state during our engagement before children were on the mind. The child will several names... The limited number of letters in the names.. They are publicly posted and she didn’t want me to get too cute. Try to connect with Hawaii in some way since we were not living there. At least 3 generations born in Hawaii but Portuguese, no one is Hawaiian, my husband born and raised there and we live on mainland. We would need a saint name so first or middle would have to be that and there are probably not a lot of Native Hawaiian official saints.

[@Threewolfs-]

ALOHA with all my Heart and Soul, Mahalo and Aloha 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼❤️❤️❤️🤙🏼🤠

[@mariax1485]

Thanks for another interesting and thoughtful video. Congrats on the baby. Do you speak Japanese too or just your wife? Also curious if you speak Hawaiian? Have a nice day ☺️

[@HelloFromHawaii]

My wife speaks Japanese. I only know a few phrases. And we don't speak Hawaiian.

[@COVID-cm4rn]

I dont think haoles should use hawaiian names just because they were stationed here or had a vacation here. Locals should be able to use hawaiian names especially if they were born and raised and knows the culture. But, hawaiian blood has been watered down so much that its hard to find real hawaiians. The thing i hate more though is everyone with tribal tattoos. For some reason it bugs me.

[@granta3044]

My friend in high school was a full blooded chinese guy named kekoa

[@Keliiyamashita]

🤣🤣🤣

[@itsourlocallife]

For me it doesn’t matter who carries a Hawaiian name, main thing you got pronunciation & okina on point. LoL 🤙

[@Critique808]

Lots of non Hawaiian girls name is Lani or Leilani.

[@hmmmm.3899]

I’m definitely on the side of non native hawaiians receiving their “hawaiian” names from a kahuna or kumu hula or at least a legit cultural practitioner. Otherwise, it is appropriation, which is something that non-kanaka locals have been doing for decades, and continue to do with whatever justification they can find. The “no bloodline” connection is not the problem, it’s the no-hawaiian culture connection that is.

[@beretaniastreet6384]

Silly take

[@hmmmm.3899]

@@beretaniastreet6384 No, it’s not.

[@beretaniastreet6384]

@@hmmmm.3899 so a Hawaiian who has the name Garrett has “appropriated” that name? The whole idea of appropriation is IMO silly. There’s no definitive way of even assessing what that means.

[@hmmmm.3899]

@@beretaniastreet6384 Forcing westernization on a group of people is not appropriation so, not the same. And there is a definition of appropriation, literally, it’s in the dictionary.

[@beretaniastreet6384]

@@hmmmm.3899 So it’s inconceivable to you that a Hawaiian person could ever decide to give their kid a traditionally Western name, or Asian name, or African name. “No, never could happened” is what you’re suggesting? Seriously?!? 😂😂😂

[@ryanlapinad]

My mom said it was too late to submit the given name. I attribute your reviews Hello From Hawaii. hahaha takumeze takumkea

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@alexcarter8807]

I have a relative who's official "Victor" but also "Kawika" which is Hawaiian for Victor, and whose last name is a Hispanic one. But he's part Hawaiian. In the US it's a really mixed up thing. There are actually tons of white people with names you don't associate with white people. Lots of names out of the Bible that are originally Hebrew names, or names used by other groups in the Middle East. So if my brother's name is Alan, which is from the Hebrew Elon or Ilan, is that cultural appropriation? If my first name is Alex, am I fraudulently trying to tell the world I am Greek or Macedonian? I think it's more sensitive in the case of Hawaiian or Japanese names because contact between. Japan and Hawaii and "the West" has been a lot more recent.

[@sidspencer2635]

Kawika = David

[@kauiam9043]

Kawika is Hawaiian for David

[@christinebrand8945]

Here I am, living in Switzerland, never been to Hawaii, thinking about naming our baby with a Hawaiian name because my husband is loving Hawaii (he has been there multiple times) and doesn't think any other names are nice. With all the talk about cultural appropriation it's very difficult to say what one is allowed to do and what not to...

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Yeah, it's hard. Hopefully you both figure out what you're comfortable with.

[@arturohull14161]

If you’re in Switzerland, choose a German name.

[@jhfaleafine1870]

You should do a video about Polynesian tattoos as well...

[@HelloFromHawaii]

😆 unfortunately, I can't speak from experience on that one

[@SeahawkMoments]

Born n raised Hawaii. Now live Seattle. Love Hawaii, the place, the so called Ohana feeling, and all that. What I don’t miss whatsoever are the small kine lil man syndrome of Hawaii. Meaning small in geograpyhy, small in stature (most the population compared to world), napoleon complex. I understand the feeling of that, and “we da best” attitude, the know it all attitude, and the so called “rules” like this video or can foreigners speak pigeon or whatever. So dumb, so ludicrous. You name your kid whatever you like. And anyone wanna give you grief about that, they small kind brains. All the people who would hate on it are just clinging to their insecurities, rather then evolving and thinking about growing past that island style thinking. So what, you can’t name an Asian kid Robert now? Just dumb. Name your kids what you want, live how you want. HAPPY ALOHA FRIDAY AND GROW AND EVOLVE EVERYBODY!!!

[@MA-zg2pz]

Well it’s not gatekeeping to ask non-natives to respect someone’s culture. When someone cherry picks things from a culture just to feel “unique” in their circle of family/friends or because they want to communicate that they “like Hawaii” to their circle…that’s not respect. They’re just using parts of someone’s culture to send a message. It’s more honorable to observe native cultures and not take a piece of it for show. Also BTW people choose English names because they often have to as bullying in English speaking schools for their family given names is rampant, getting jobs in English speaking countries is easier if you have a English name, so is getting a home etc. there’s no cultural element to Robert.

[@SeahawkMoments]

@@MA-zg2pz respect is allowing anyone to do anything they want to do that does not hurt others. Respect is not to judge someone that has nothing to do with you on what they name their kids. It’s so petty.

[@MA-zg2pz]

@@SeahawkMoments ? That’s not respect, that’s tolerance alone. Respect is considering other people and then acting on that instead of only thinking “ what do I want regardless of others”. Cultural specific names may not matter to you, that is you. But remember others and what they value. It’s okay to not agree with people. Think about all native Hawaiians have been through historically.

[@hmmmm.3899]

@@SeahawkMoments Appropriating an aspect of a person’s culture could be seen as hurtful which, by your definition, is disrespectful.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

😆 lots of great observations in your comment. Some of the same things I've noticed about locals too

[@acalsadillas]

What are your sons names?

[@teddcuizon3964]

Im not really comfortable with a white guy w/ a hawaiian name, but who knows,maybe theyʻre hapa hawaiʻi. As a Filipino braddah, our long names are usually derived from our ancestors & I think its similar in hawaiian culture. I heard of dis one braddah who wen name his store "komo" & he said it meant "enter" or "welcome" but no, it "e komo mai", mo betta to learn the language & culture before naming things,yeah. But thats a good point,if you got a connection to this ʻāina & you want your kids to have a connection aswell,go for it.

[@Critique808]

I was surprised when I heard a Filipino actress named Maui Taylor. Lol

[@teddcuizon3964]

@@Critique808 i think thats just a stage name

[@Critique808]

@@teddcuizon3964 That's what I thought. A stage name

[@gumerzambrano]

Name your child whatever you want! If someone judges you for their name then maybe you wouldn't want that person in your life (:

[@klanigee311]

Hawaiian names should be gifted or blessed by a Kahuna if you are not of Native Hawaiian ancestry.

[@808hawaiianhilo4]

If not of Hawaiian bloodline I would not suggest naming your child a Hawaiian name. Many Hawaiian children were given their Hawaiian names from Tutu’s or elders. If I moved to China with my wife and had a child I wouldn’t name my child a Chinese name. Lol

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing

[@lynnvia3943]

Thanks!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo 🤙

[@rjmanzano0877]

its only a name and its up to you nobody else

[@Pixics]

Nothing wrong with giving your kid a hawaiian name, there's a baseball player with the name coco crisp. Can't be worse than that.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

😆

[@charleslacaden]

Of course its okay.

[@Steph21H]

Because there are so many multicultural and mixed races in Hawaii, I don’t understand why a name would offend the people there in the 21st century. I don’t think white people are offended when a native Hawaiian has a Caucasian name.

[@jameskawaikaupejrcwo3usmcr573]

Good for you. Look you’re a local boy from Hawai’i. Grew up in Hawai’i so what’s the beef brah? Nah just kidding. Look my last name is a Hawaiian Legend. Look it up no joking. My middle name is Kawai. Yeah I know the piano name. You just gotta do the right thing and you did. Mahalo’s brah!😊

[@ADAtrips]

I think you should name of a person how it will help and benefit them during the 3 positions thru life. 1. As a young child. 2. As a teen and as 3. An adult. I’m Norwegian but a American. We (wife and I) used why. Family, Interesting, and I can easily tell my children why they were named. Oh and had to choose name that would compliment their last name. (Kvalvik) 🇳🇴😂. The Musk should of took my thoughts when he named his child, X Æ A-12 😂 But when you are to inherit $$$ I guess all rules are tossed. 🤔 🌴🌴Aloha

[@gringo848]

No Hawaiians are named Glenn. No haoles are named Latisha or Tyrone. There are other patterns.

[@jordikeoni]

My high school classmate who is part Kanaka (Hawaiian) is named Glenn.

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

I knew a Hawaiian/Portuguese guy named "Glenn".

[@kaihoopomaikai5546]

Will all the respect and aloha, please refrain from using hawaiian names for non-hawaiian children / people. Hawaiian names have great mana (spiritual power) and are so powerful that it cannot be understood by western thinking. It is lovely to think that using hawaiian names just means you're respecting Hawaiian culture but its not. In hawaiian culture, it is seen as stealing. Stealing mana that is not yours to take/have. Every culture has beautiful names and traditions of their own so don't use traditions/names/ etc. from a culture that is not your own. Mahalo nui loa

[@lorrinekaai7489]

I like the shirt your wearing Chris I want to order me that shirt

[@lorrinekaai7489]

Put some flower designs on

[@HelloFromHawaii]

I don't have these for sale, but thanks for your interest. I'm still looking for a reliable shirt printer.

[@lorrinekaai7489]

Some Hawaiian names are beautiful_ like leilani

[@lorrinekaai7489]

My cousin name her daughter Leilani and there's kauilani there are Hawaiian books with baby's name and their meaning

[@kimberleyike2168]

I'm not hawaiian at all but live in Kapolei part time now but lived on the island since 2009. I was born and raised in NJ. Currently work in NJ because I make way more in NJ then HI. I don't agree with naming kids or pets HI name. It's actually really irritating and annoying. (I'm like you're from NJ or whatever state. You just had to go there didn't you?? 🙄) Just being honest. 😀

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙