Understanding the Hawaiian Spelling: Hawai'i vs. Hawaii

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to promote the use of proper Hawaiian language spelling. This endeavor aims to preserve and honor the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of the Hawaiian people. One of the key elements of this movement is the correct spelling of the name of the Hawaiian islands, which involves the use of the Hawaiian alphabet, including the Okina character.

The Hawaiian Alphabet: An Overview

The Hawaiian alphabet is composed predominantly of Roman characters, but it includes a unique character: the Okina. The Okina, also known as the glottal stop, is a distinctly shaped Unicode character that appears as a rotated comma. It is officially named MODIFIER LETTER TURNED COMMA in Unicode, although most front-end tools do not display it as a separate character. Due to its display characteristics, many people are unaware of the true form of the Okina and often mistakenly type it as an apostrophe.

Why Use Hawai'i?

When comparing the English spelling 'Hawaii' to the Hawaiian spelling 'Hawai'i', it is important to recognize that the Hawaiian spelling is the preferred form. The inclusion of the Okina in 'Hawai'i' is not merely a stylistic choice, but a crucial aspect of pronunciation and cultural respect. The Okina represents a specific sound, a glottal stop that is present in the Hawaiian language and is pronounced between the last two 'i's in the word.

This pronunciation guide is akin to the macron in Māori, the acute accent in French (as in flambé), and the umlaut in German (as in fh?n). By omitting the Okina, one is effectively negating an essential linguistic aspect of the Hawaiian language. This, in turn, can be interpreted as a lack of respect and cultural sensitivity, potentially leading to adverse reactions from speakers of the Hawaiian language.

Importance of Cultural Respect and Accuracy

The decision to use 'Hawai'i' instead of 'Hawaii' is not just about spelling; it is a matter of cultural respect and linguistic accuracy. When you get it right, you demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of the Hawaiian culture. Speakers of the Hawaiian language, and indeed all language enthusiasts, will notice and respond to you much more positively. It is a small but significant step toward acknowledging the unique identity and heritage of the Hawaiian people.

By embracing the correct spelling and pronunciation, you contribute to the preservation of the Hawaiian language and the celebration of a rich cultural tradition. This effort not only honors the past but also serves as a bridge connecting the past with the future, ensuring that the legacy of the Hawaiian culture continues to thrive.

In conclusion, the choice to spell 'Hawaii' as 'Hawai'i' is more than just a spelling preference; it is a mark of respect and cultural sensitivity. It reflects a deeper appreciation for the language and culture of the Hawaiian people, and it is a step towards greater understanding and inclusivity.