A Place in the Middle: Kumu Hina Teaches Inclusion and Respect for All

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Please join us for a free workshop on teaching Kumu Hina in classrooms and community settings, facilitated by educators and activists Adam Chang and Jo Chang.

Imagine a world where a little boy can grow up to be the woman of his dreams, and inspire a young girl to become a leader among men....

A PLACE IN THE MIDDLE is a film about keeping ancient Hawaiian traditions alive in modern day society. It is told through the lens of Hoʻonani, a 6th grade student who dreams of leading the boys-only hula troupe at her school in Honolulu. The only trouble is that the group is just for boys. She's fortunate that her teacher understands first-hand what it's like to be “in the middle”- the ancient Hawaiian tradition of embracing both male and female spirit. Together they set out to prove that what matters most is to be true to yourself.

This short film, excerpted from the feature-length PBS documentary KUMU HINA by O'ahu-based directors Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson, is a new resource for students and teachers to examine cultural change and continuity, gender diversity, and the meaning of aloha. Join experienced community organizers and youth advocates Adam Chang and Jo Chang to view A PLACE IN THE MIDDLE and talk about the role that stories play in opening and changing hearts and minds.

Adam Chang is the Community Outreach Coordinator for Gender Spectrum, a national organization based in San Francisco Bay Area that aims to promote increased understanding and awareness of gender diversity.

Jo Chang is the founder of the LGBT Youth Safety Network and Da Moms, Honolulu-based groups providing resources and support to youth and families.

This event is co-sponsored by the Center for Biographical Research and Nolu ‘Ehu.

Event Sponsor
Center for Biographical Research, Mānoa Campus

More Information
(808) 358-0871, aikoy@hawaii.edu, http://www.facebook.com/CBRHawaii

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