Dr. ‘Ulise Funaki (Kakai Tonga, Kanaka Maoli) is featured in this episode and shares a breadth of insights having recently completed a doctorate in anthropology at the University of Hawai‘i and as an instructor at Brigham Young University – Hawai‘i. Topics covered in this episode include: Navigating research and study as a grounded family person; Kava protocols in academic spaces; Historical and shifting kava perceptions among Latter-day Saints (Mormons); The continuation and adaptation of kava for a new generation of Tongans and Native Hawaiians in O'ahu to connect to fonua; Ali‘i Kaua – Chief of War commentary and insights on contemporary and future kava practices within and outside of Oceanian communities.

Terms: TRA (Tonga Research Association), member (referring to being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, mainstream Mormon, or Brighamite Mormon), Kava/‘Awa (Piper Methysticum), Kakai Tonga (People of Tonga), Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian), Fonua (Land, Heritage, Land-connected People), Cobo (iTaukei/Fijian expresson for deep clap to indicate a call for kava to be served and to show respect), Lāhui (Hawaiian community/nation/people).

References:

Historical and Contemporary Representation of Kava by Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by Sione M. U. H. Funaki in Pacific Studies

Doctoral Research on Contemporary Kava Practices in Hawai‘i featuring ‘Ulise Funaki

Dr. Funaki’s thesis/dissertation, "Ko 'Emau Nofo Pē 'Eni la 'O Pukepuke Fonua" We Are Sitting Here, Tightly Holding Onto the Land: Kava and Fonua in Ko'olauloa