I identify as Kanaka Maoli. My gender expression and understanding of my identity, evolving in my earlier years, was always seen as strange. I didn’t fit the description of Native women and men. I was simply Native, and this was too vague for people, even as someone who was surrounded by kanaka growing up.

I hope to honor the legacy of my ancestors by reinventing the ways we understand each other.

I plan to share my stories and encourage others to use their voices in ways that I wish someone had done for me in the times I felt excluded.