ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration Peace March
Mai Poʻina ʻOe Iaʻu (Don't Forget About Me)
About the 2026 Commemoration
Resilience, Remembrance, and Unifying the Lāhui
2026 Theme: Mai Poʻina ʻOe Iaʻu (Don't Forget About Me)
The 2026 commemoration connects Queen Liliʻuokalani's legacy with current issues of ending military leases. This commemoration is about resilience, remembrance, and the unifying of the lāhui, connecting past injustices with present-day justice and Aloha ʻĀina.
ʻOnipaʻa: Steadfast in Our Purpose
The ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration Peace March honors the memory of Queen Liliʻuokalani and marks the anniversary of the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. This solemn powerful Peace march acknowledges the historical injustice of the overthrow and reaffirms our ʻOnipaʻa and firm resolve.
This peaceful procession and gathering will carry the light of truth, awakening, and sacredness, from her final resting place to the seat of the Kingdom, in a day of remembrance, hoʻokupu, and discussion of current and past issues impacting the lāhui.
We anticipate between 6,000 - 10,000 participants joining in this day of unity, making it one of the largest commemorations in recent history.
No Smoking Policy
No smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping) will be allowed on church, Royal Mausoleum, or Palace grounds, out of respect for these sacred spaces and the health of all participants.
Event Schedule
January 16th, 2026 - Commemoration & Peace Procession
Procession Order
- The Queen's Court Procession, flanked by Kahili Bearers
- The Queen's Court Kiaʻi in safeguarding the overall integrity of the procession
- The Royal Family, Hawaiian Leaders, and Head Chanters
- Esteemed Chanters and Leaders for Protocol such as Kumu Hina, Kumu Kawaikapu, Kumu Vicky Takamine Holt, and Kumu Nani
- Native Hawaiian Activist Leader Groups
- Organizations that Support Native Hawaiian Rights
- Schools (Students, Faculty, and Staff)
- Community Members
Hae Hawaiʻi Bearers will be integrated appropriately throughout the procession, especially with the leading groups and as a significant presence within the community section. Chant Leaders will be positioned strategically throughout the procession to lead and sustain.
Support & Safety
- Kiaʻi: Integrated along the full length of the procession line, acting as guides, ensuring integrity, and providing a protective presence for all participants. They will work in coordination with general security and law enforcement.
- Security: Present to ensure safety and maintain overall order and logistics.
- Water Stations: Water will be distributed along the route for participants.
- Medical Support: Mauna Medics Emergency medical teams will be present throughout the route.
Arrival at ʻIolani Palace & Formal Opening Protocol
- As the procession approaches ʻIolani Palace, the chanting will shift to chants of arrival, blessing, and honor for our beloved capital of the Hawaiian nation.
- Participants will form a respectful perimeter around the Palace grounds as The Queen's Court proceeds to the front steps, guided by the Kiaʻi.
- Pū Kani: Announcing the formal start of the Palace ceremony.
- Oli Aloha acknowledging the sacredness of the space and the occasion.
- Pule Wehena led by Kumu Vicky Takamine Holt, setting the tone for the day, acknowledging ancestors, and seeking blessings.
- The Queen's Court: Members of The Queen's Court take their place at the protocol area.
Hoʻokupu Ceremony
- A raised platform for hoʻokupu protocol, Haka Lele will be positioned prominently at the base of the Palace steps.
- Explanation of the Hoʻokupu: A brief, respectful explanation of the significance of the Hoʻokupu – an act of honor, respect, gratitude, and reciprocal exchange.
- Procession of Hoʻokupu: Individuals, families, and organizations are invited to come forward to the platform to present their hoʻokupu.
- ʻOli Hoʻokupu: Hoʻokupu are presented, chants are performed to accompany each hoʻokupu, acknowledging its significance and the intent of the giver.
- Acceptance of Hoʻokupu: Designated members of The Queen's Court respectfully receive the hoʻokupu. This will be done with grace and dignity.
- Pule Hoʻōla: A collective prayer for healing, resilience, and the future of the lāhui.
March Route
Our path from Mauna ʻAla to ʻIolani Palace
The Journey
The Peace March follows a significant route through Honolulu, connecting important historical sites related to the Hawaiian monarchy.
- Starting Point: Royal Mausoleum (Mauna ʻAla) - 2268 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817
- Proceeding along: Nuʻuanu Avenue toward downtown Honolulu
- Continuing on: Beretania Street
- Turning onto: Richards Street
- Destination: ʻIolani Palace - 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
The total distance is approximately 2.5 miles. Water stations will be available along the route. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection.
For those unable to walk the full distance, shuttle services will be available at designated points along the route.
Procession Atmosphere: The procession proceeds slowly and deliberately, maintaining a respectful atmosphere. Throughout the procession, specific ʻoli and songs will be performed, honoring the Queen, ancestors, and reaffirming Hawaiian sovereignty and strength. Periods of respectful silence can also be observed for personal reflection and collective remembrance of each wahi pana of our royalty.
Commemoration T-shirts
Available August 2025
ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration T-shirt
Show your support and commemorate this historic event with our official ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration Peace March t-shirt. Each shirt features the 2026 theme "Mai Poʻina ʻOe Iaʻu" and beautiful artwork honoring Queen Liliʻuokalani's legacy.
Designed by Native Hawaiian artists
Proceeds support the ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration and related educational initiatives
Available Sizes:
Contact Us
Have questions? Reach out to our organizing committee.
Get in Touch
We're here to answer your questions about the ʻOnipaʻa Commemoration
Our team will respond to your inquiry within 48 hours.
Visit our website: liliuokalanicourt.squarespace.com