California Golden Bears Athletics
Coming Home
5/21/2021 12:49 PM | Athletics News
Dear Cal fans,
It's great to speak with you again!
Some of you may remember me from a blog I wrote during my time with Cal men's soccer called "Kaleo's Korner." In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I thought I'd write to you again to tell you a little about how I've been exploring my heritage since graduating this past December.
During my last year at Cal, I began to think a lot about race and ethnicity - what it means to have ancestors, and how to be a good one for future generations. So upon graduating, I thought it would be meaningful for me to move to Hawai'i - one of the places from which my ancestors came. I figured learning more about where I come from would help me better understand where I'm going.
So about a month after graduating, I packed a backpack and a suitcase and bought a plane ticket to Honolulu. I've been living here since.
So far in my time here, I've learned many great lessons from a variety of unexpected teachers. Of the long list of incredible experiences, here are a few that I would highlight.
First, volunteering at a local fish pond in Pearl Harbor to help build a hale (or healing space) for returning veterans. Here, I learned how important fish ponds were to Native Hawaiians for sustaining a healthy island ecosystem, and witnessed the true spirit of giving.
Second, rehearsing traditional Native Hawaiian oli or chant - the primary art form for preserving oral histories and genealogy in Hawaiian culture. This experience opened my eyes to the power of the voice, and the joy of partaking in cultural rituals and revitalization efforts.
And third, coaching soccer with kids in my community. Across my entire playing career in the continental U.S., I could probably count on one hand the amount of Hawaiian kids - kids that looked like me – that played with me. But here, there are tons of Hawaiian kids playing soccer! This, especially, has been a pleasure to witness. Kids are great teachers.
Upon reflection, much of my motivation for coming here and exploring my heritage was cultivated in large part thanks to Cal's open and encouraging environment. From taking coursework in Hawaiian ethnology to attending protests for Native Hawaiian rights, Cal was a pivotal part of the origin story of my curiosity about my culture.
To anyone else out there who also might be curious about where they come from, I would encourage you to keep asking questions. All of our identities are layered with stories. There is much to remember and learn.
Mahalo (thank you) all for listening, and happy AAPI Heritage Month. Until next time, Go Bears!
