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Cultural Protocol at Kūpopolo Heiau
Archaeology can sometimes be a sensitive political issue. While the true goal of archaeology is to gain a deeper meaning and understanding of human history and our shared cultural heritage through an examination of the past, archaeologists can sometimes be perceived as treasure hunting plunderers. In the past such stereotypes may have had a ring of truth to them, but in the modern era the field of archaeology is very scientific and run by a strict set of ethics. However, issues of cultural sensitivity still come to the forefront during field work where some exploits may have been interpreted as being exploitative. Such sentiments damage the overall reputation of the field and can make conducting research in the field problematic. Many archaeologists are beginning to realize that many of the cultures and people that they are studying are not merely static and relegated to the past. Local communities and indigenous people often have deep cultural and spiritual ties to the architectural remains, artifacts, and human remains that are uncovered and studied by archaeologists. Hawaii is an example of a place where cultural sensitivity plays a key role in the archaeological process. The culture being studied through archaeological remains did not simply vanish and its people did not disappear. Hawaiian culture is alive and vibrant today, so archaeologists must strive to find ways be respectful of both modern Hawaiian people and their ancestors. Building relationships between archaeologists and the local Hawaiian community helps to establish trust and understanding. The staff of the North Shore Archaeological Field School includes native Hawaiian advisors who are members of the local community and can trace their ancestral lineage back many generations. The cultural advisors play an important role by ensuring that the archaeologists and students follow protocol. Under their guidance we give due diligence to the site and show respect for the Hawaiian ancestors of the past and their descendents who are living in the present. One way that we practice cultural protocol is through the chanting of Hawaiian pule (prayers) at each of our Field School sessions. We begin with E hō mai. That is a prayer that we be granted with wisdom and knowledge. Next we follow with Oli Noi Komo which serves as a request for entry to the heiau (temple) site. We then proceed to the site in reverent silence to begin our work. At the conclusion of the days proceedings we close by reciting another pule, Huikala. That final pule is a prayer for purification that relieves the group from kapu (taboo). Only after reciting Huikala five times without any mistakes may they depart in peace. Community involvement is another way that the North Shore Archaeological Field School is able to initiate a better sense of understanding with native Hawaiians and members of the public. The Field School holds regular community service days that are open to the public. People come to the site and get to witness and participate in cultural protocol and archaeological technique. Sharing and talk story are integral components of those events. Students and staff share their thoughts and experiences with the public and the public is able to provide valuable insight about local history and tradition. Sharing in those experiences is very important because it helps to provide further context about the sites that we are studying and serves to perpetuate Hawaiian culture by continuing the longstanding tradition of passing along an oral history. Practicing archaeology is a privilege, not a right. To be allowed to continue practicing archaeology it is imperative that archaeologists honor and respect the traditions and history of the people living in the areas where we work. I think that I can speak for all of the students of the North Shore Archaeological Field School when I say that it was truly a blessing and honor to be able to work at the Kūpopolo heiau and learn so much about Hawaiian culture and history!
