MARCH 2026

Column 66

   

HAWAIIAN SPIRITUAL/ASIAN PACIFIC ISLANDER LUAU

By all accounts, the very first California Health Care Facility (CHCF) Hawaiian Pacific Islander Luau was impressively successful. Held in CHCF's Old Visiting Room on January 8, 2026, members of this newest CHCF Cultural group put on an enthusiastic and heartfelt display of many traditional dances and songs from various Pacific Islands including Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa and New Zealand. Additionally, there were several contributions from the Native American Spiritual Circle community, including a song and prayer.

A year ago, C-Yard resident N (Fa) V conceived of, and pursued the idea of establishing a traditional Pacific Island/Asian cultural club here at CHCF. Initially Fa was told there was no way he would be able to accomplish this very difficult task. Sixteen days later CHCF had its newest member of the CHCF cultural/spiritual organizations, much to the surprise of many who did not think Fa would be able to make his vision a reality. Fa said, "In prison many people have lost touch with who they are because they have lost touch with their past.". Fa continued, "we want to teach rehabilitation through our culture and traditions."

One year later, the members of the Hawaiian Club were able to perform a combination on songs and dances showcasing the varied examples of cultures and traditions of the Hawaiian Club members. This was all the more impressive because of the limited time the group had to practice together.

Resident T (Uso T) M was the Master of Ceremonies who guided the audience through each event by explaining the history and tradition of the songs and dances. The Luau began with an opening prayer by KW, followed by an open greeting offered by Fa as he warmly welcomed all guests in attendance. J (Momo)R then read the very well-known "Prayer To The Great Spirit," authored by Native American Chief Yellow Lark.

The songs and dances commenced with an Aloha Dance (a Hawaiian welcome dance) and the Hawaiian chant "Kila Kila" was performed by nine dancers from the group. Watching these dancers perform, it was hard to believe they had only been practicing together for a short period of time.

All the dances were accompanied by resident R (Uso Smurf) S on the drums, providing a strong beat for the dancers to keep in time with. When asked what he felt would come out of the cultural group, Uso Smurf said, "We are hoping to teach these guys their language and culture. I hope it will give them a foundation, and they take what they learn so when they go home they will teach their kids what they have learned and it will help them stay out of prison."

The sequence of songs was: The Aloha Dance (with Hawaiian chant), A Tongan song, "E Fae", which is a mother's song. The " Isa Lei Lia" which is a Fijian longing song. "Mali E", a Samoan song about enjoying life. " Kamate Haka", which was well received, is a Maori (New Zealand) war dance. Uso T said, "it can be either a war dance, or a welcome dance. It is up to the person who the dance is performed for how they want to take it." "E Papa" is another Maori song, by a Fijian artist who wrote the song about a girl who left, but the artist wants back.

The Island songs and dances were followed by an excellent performance by J (Johnny) A of the CHCF Native Spiritual Circle. The "Fire Song" was very moving and the audience was appreciative of Johnny's contribution to this first ever CHCF Luau.

O.M. gave a very somber presentation about his home country of Laos, stating, "during the Vietnam war, there were more bombs dropped in Laos then in Europe and Japan during World War II.

After the songs and dances, Uso T, addressed the audience saying, "I thank everyone for coming and participating in this special occasion. When I first got involved with this group I was not sure about it. I went to my first meeting and saw this bunch of dubious looking characters, so I put on my fake smile. But my negative thoughts changed and I have gotten to love this group of guys, and it has made the cultural group meetings my favorite part of the week."

Uso T then asked the attending guests if they would like to say a few words.

Warden (A) V. told the group, "Thank you for inviting us. It was very enjoyable. I would also like a cloth like that," (referring to the traditional Lava Kava loincloth worn by the dancers, as well as by J (Sonny) D's service dog, Mattice). (Note: CHCF has a service dog training program with the residents given puppies to train so they grow up to be service dogs).

CRM JG, who was responsible for approving the cultural group said, "I was doubtful at first, but it is cool to see this."
Associate Warden P told the group, "Thank you for allowing us to attend."
Captain L simply said, "Thank you."

Deacon C then said a prayer to bless the food--a delicious Hawaiian Bar-B-Q which was made possible by Uso Frank as well as donations from other members of the cultural group.

Unfortunately, no photos were taken. Perhaps this will be possible for the next Luau.

The Luau was a very impressive exhibition of culture and tradition with the dancers and singers doing a remarkable job. The pride in what they were able to do was evident. Fa, Uso T, Uso Smurf and the rest of the cultural club have every right to feel this way.

Thank you.
Dean Carter
March 11, 2026

California Health Care Facility
Dean Carter C97919
Box 213040
Stockton, CA 95213
USA