Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Rename The Russian Fort Elisabeth State Historical Park In Waimea, Kauai, As "paulaula".
The proposed name change seeks to align the park's designation with the cultural narratives of the area, reflecting the historical context of Kauai's indigenous rulers and their encounters with foreign powers. By renaming the park, the resolution aims to foster a greater appreciation of Hawaii's multicultural history and the significance of place names in preserving local traditions and stories. The resolution also calls for the development of new interpretive materials to educate the public about the site's unique history and cultural significance.
Senate Concurrent Resolution SCR119 urges the Board of Land and Natural Resources to rename the Russian Fort Elisabeth State Historical Park in Waimea, Kauai, as 'Paulaula'. This resolution is framed within the context of preserving and honoring Hawaii's rich cultural heritage. It highlights the historical significance of the site, which was originally a royal compound for King Kaumualii, and focuses on the need to recognize and uplift the traditional name Paulaula, which has deep roots in local history and identity.
There may be points of contention around the transition from the historic name to a name that is more representative of local cultural identity. While supporters advocate for the name change as a means of reconciling historical narratives and honoring Native Hawaiian heritage, discussions regarding the site's historical significance, the colonial era under Russian military presence, and ongoing preservation efforts will likely be areas of focus for lawmakers and the community alike. The passage of this resolution may prompt a broader dialogue about how state parks and historical sites represent both local and colonial history.
The resolution points out that the location has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is significant to both Hawaiian culture and the multicultural history of the region. It emphasizes collaboration with various entities to enhance the site's interpretive resources, ensuring they reflect Hawai'i's commitment to preserving native culture and history.