We can carry signs, and we should,  We can organize and we can march, and yes we should do this as well.  And absolutely we must offer testimony and write letters to the editor.  And we must vote, and support candidates that represent our values.  

But if we want real change that will make a tangible difference in our lifetime, we must run for and serve in public office – at all levels.

2020 will be a watershed year.

If you believe in the values of economic, environmental and social justice, and if you aspire to help lead in the effort to promote these values, and if you are willing to do the hark work necessary to achieve these ends – Please apply TODAY to the Kuleana Academy.

“We need aloha aina, community based, forward thinking people to take advantage of this program and run for office, because we need more of you…” Keani Rawlins-Fernandez, Maui Councilmember and Kuleana Academy Graduate

“I have to credit my success 100% to Hapa’s Kuleana Academy…” Representative Tina Wildberger

Watch this short 3 minute video, then go to https://www.hapahi.org/kuleana-academy and apply TODAY, April 15 – If you are rooted in your community and have the desire, the values and the work ethic needed to make real change happen – Please Apply!

The Kuleana Academy is a statewide leadership development and non-partisan candidate training program hosted by the Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA) in partnership with other leading public interest organizations in Hawai’i.

Participants from all island attend six (6) weekend trainings on O‘ahu (over 4 month period) in leadership and personal development, public speaking, and media training. They will also learn critical community organizing skills, the basics of the legislative process and Boards and Commissions, as well as campaigning skills.  Transportation and accommodation costs will be provided by the Academy, and applicants from all islands are encouraged to apply.

The core of HAPA’s mission is to catalyze community empowerment and systemic change – change that goes to the root of our social, economic and environmental injustices. In order to fulfill that mission, HAPA believes that Hawai‘i needs more progressive government leaders who value ʻāina (environment or “that which feeds”) and people ahead of corporate profit.

The Kuleana Academy is designed to educate and train grassroots leaders who have a desire to serve in public office, as community organizers, or on Hawai`i’s Boards and Commissions. The program provides participants a well-rounded introduction to critical social, economic and environmental issues in Hawai‘i, as well as in-depth leadership development training and the ins-and-outs of campaigning.