Examining the Landscape of Language Reclamation in Hawai‘i: Past, Present, and Future

This study investigated self-reported language proficiency, attitudes, and perceptions across generations to assess the current state of Hawaiian language reclamation. Drawing on survey responses from 177 individuals living across the Hawaiian Islands, results shared trends in proficiency, school experiences, and motivations for learning Hawaiian. Survey responses revealed that self-reported proficiency across all language domains was higher with younger generations, with Millennials and Generation Z demonstrating higher levels of proficiency. Respondents consistently identified Kaiapuni schools (i.e., Hawaiian-medium schools) as the strongest contributors to language reclamation, highlighting their role in fostering proficiency and cultural identity. This study underscores the importance of immersion education, community support, and sustained investment in teacher recruitment and training for advancing language reclamation. Findings offer critical lessons for Indigenous language revitalization globally, emphasizing the interplay between intergenerational engagement, educational opportunities, and shifting language attitudes.