Papahānaumokuākea Native Hawaiian Cultural Working Group

We are a diverse group of Kānaka Maoli advocating on behalf of our kūpuna islands, Papahānaumokuākea.

Looking out over the ocean horizon from cliffs.
Mokumanamana. Photo: Brad Ka‘aleleo Wong, CWG member

The Papahānaumokuākea Native Hawaiian Cultural Working Group (CWG) is composed of Native Hawaiians who have deep connections and historical ties to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Marine Monument through a living pilina (relationship) bound by genealogy, cultural protocol, research, and stewardship.

Our Values

School of fish

Kuleana

Ensure Native Hawaiian mana‘o are included and active in the management and protection of natural, cultural, and historic resources.

Sailing through Papahanaumokakea

Pilina

Remember, develop, and maintain Native Hawaiian relationships to Papahānaumokuākea—as our sacred homeland—through the language and culture of ancestral wisdom and contemporary observation.

Baby honu

Hoʻōla a Ola

Support the birth, life, and regenerative rights of Papahānaumokuākea.

Ko Kākou Kuleana

The CWG works closely with the co-trustees, co-managing agencies, and partner organizations to protect this wahi pana—storied place—with deep respect, cultural authority, and unwavering commitment.

The Hawaiian Archipelago is divided by Ke Ala Polohiwa a Kāne (the Tropic of Cancer) borders pō (spirit realm) and ao (living realm).

A map of the entire Hawaiian archipelago from Hawaiʻi Island to Hōlanikū Atoll. Image: NOAA Marine Debris Program