Research Paper On The Commercialization Of Hawaiian Culture

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The Commercialization Of Hawaiian Culture

Aloha! Hawai'i's beautiful islands are known not only for their pristine beaches and breathtaking natural landscapes but also for their rich cultural heritage. However, there has been growing concern in recent years about the commercialization of Hawaiian culture. The appropriation of Hawaiian cultural symbols and practices for profit by non-native individuals and corporations has resulted in the commodification of Hawaiian culture, causing significant harm to native Hawaiians. In this essay, we will look at how Hawaiian culture has been commercialized and how it has affected the Hawaiian people.
The commercialization of Hawaiian culture can be seen in a variety of ways, from the use of Hawaiian words and symbols in fashion and marketing to the commodification of traditional Hawaiian practices such as hula and lei-making. The appropriation of Hawaiian culture for commercial gain has met with opposition from the Hawaiian community, who believe that their cultural heritage is …show more content…

Many of Hawaii's tourist-oriented businesses are owned and operated by non-Hawaiian individuals and corporations, resulting in native Hawaiians losing economic power and control. Furthermore, profiteering from Hawaiian culture frequently comes at the expense of the natural environment, which is a vital source of cultural identity and subsistence for native Hawaiian communities. According to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, "Without access to natural and cultural resources, Hawaiians have lost an important part of their cultural heritage and economic well-being" (Office of Hawaiian Affairs). This leads the people of Hawaii at a disadvantage as colonizers have come in and stolen all of their resources and used it to make a profit for themselves giving nothing to the owners of the