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Detours: A Decolonial Guide to Hawaiʻi

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Unveiling the Hidden Truths and Reclaiming Indigenous Perspectives

Book Cover Of Detours: A Decolonial Guide To Hawai'i Detours: A Decolonial Guide To Hawai I

In the realm of travel writing, Detours: A Decolonial Guide to Hawaiʻi stands as a beacon of transformative storytelling. This groundbreaking work, meticulously crafted by editors Kapulani Landgraf and Dean Itsuji Saranillio, challenges the superficial narratives that often dominate discussions of Hawaiʻi and invites readers to engage with the complexities of its history, culture, and ongoing struggles.

Detours: A Decolonial Guide to Hawai'i

by Hokulani K. Aikau

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	255620 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	435 pages

Detours is not merely a travel guide; it is a profound exploration of the decolonial movement in Hawaiʻi. It delves into the legacies of colonialism and imperialism, shedding light on the ways in which they have shaped the islands' social, political, and economic landscapes. Through the voices of native Hawaiian scholars, activists, and artists, the book offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by the indigenous community and the resilience and determination with which they have resisted assimilation and fought for self-determination.

Deconstructing the Tourist Gaze

One of the most striking features of Detours is its critique of the tourist industry in Hawaiʻi. The editors argue that the mainstream portrayal of the islands as a tropical paradise perpetuates a narrow and distorted view that obscures the realities of Hawaiian life. By encouraging tourists to venture beyond the well-trodden paths and engage with the local community, Detours aims to foster a more respectful and authentic understanding of Hawaiʻi.

The book's contributors explore the ways in which tourism has contributed to the commodification of Hawaiian culture and the erosion of traditional practices. They challenge the romanticized notions of "aloha spirit" and "hula dancing" that are often marketed to tourists, revealing the underlying power dynamics and cultural appropriation that have shaped these representations.

Reclaiming Indigenous Histories and Perspectives

At the heart of Detours is a commitment to reclaiming indigenous histories and perspectives. The book provides a platform for Native Hawaiian voices to share their experiences, stories, and insights. Through essays, poems, and interviews, Detours gives voice to the struggles and aspirations of the Hawaiian people, offering a rich and multifaceted account of their ongoing journey towards self-determination.

Contributors to the book include renowned scholars such as Noenoe Silva, Kēhaulani Kauanui, and Haunani-Kay Trask, as well as activists, artists, and cultural practitioners. Their writings explore a wide range of topics, from the history of Hawaiian sovereignty to the contemporary challenges facing the indigenous community. By centering Native Hawaiian perspectives, Detours challenges the dominant narratives that have often marginalized and silenced indigenous voices.

Inspiring Social and Environmental Justice

Detours is not only a work of scholarship and critique; it is also a call to action. The book's editors and contributors believe that by understanding the complex history and ongoing struggles of the Hawaiian people, readers can become more informed and engaged allies in the fight for social and environmental justice. They encourage readers to support indigenous-led initiatives, promote sustainable tourism practices, and advocate for policies that protect the rights of Native Hawaiians.

Detours offers a powerful and thought-provoking lens through which to view the complexities of Hawaiʻi. It is a must-read for anyone interested in decolonization, indigenous rights, and the search for a more just and equitable world.