Open AccessThe (re) urbanization of Honolulu: Colonialism and urban renewal in Hawaii
Author(s) -
Benson Charles
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
ayana
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2718-6717
DOI - 10.24215/27186717e006
Subject(s) - colonialism , gentrification , urbanization , indigenous , plague (disease) , sociology , colonial rule , political science , ethnology , geography , economic growth , development economics , history , law , archaeology , economics , ecology , biology
In this essay, I explore the implications of (neo)colonialism on Keʻeaumoku street and look towards indigenous and community-based answers. As issues of gentrification, homelessness, and the rising cost of living plague Hawaiʻi, many look for ways to solve these issues as an “Us” (Hawaiʻi Residents) versus “Them” (Continental U.S. and International Corporations) dichotomy, as opposed to looking towards the broader issues of colonialism and the further implications. To do this, I specifically look at the Transit-Oriented Development and make connections between the historical and contemporary urbanization of Honolulu and the ongoing colonization of Hawaiʻi. I also suggest that the social action previously taken by communities in Kakaʻako should be used for the Keʻeaumoku street community.