PROTECTING KAHOʻOLAWE: 50 YEARS OF ALOHA ʻĀINA w/ SACRED ISLAND: LIVING THE DREAM

Marking the 50th anniversary of the first landing by the “Kahoʻolawe Nine,” whose courageous actions in 1976 galvanized a movement that ultimately helped end military bombing, directors Mark Carpenter and Corbin Gregory journey to Kahoʻolawe to witness the ʻohana’s work firsthand. Through intimate personal stories, historical reflection, and the ongoing restoration of the ʻāina, the film honors generations of activists, cultural practitioners, and community members who dedicated themselves to protecting the island. More than a history of resistance, it is a testament to aloha ʻāina—the enduring relationship between people and land—and the continuing responsibility to heal and safeguard Kahoʻolawe for future generations.

Preceded by SACRED ISLAND: LIVING THE DREAM; both films will be followed by a special extended panel discussion after the first screening. 

A group of local musicians visit Kaho‘olawe to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the island’s reclamation from military bombing. They pule (pray) at sacred sites and compose new music for an album inspired by the island’s mana (spiritual power) and the work of nonprofit Protect Kaho‘olawe ‘Ohana.