If you are a first-time visitor to Hawaii and you have white skin, don’t be surprised if locals refer to you as a “haole” — but also don’t take it too seriously.
The word “haole” goes as far back as the 17th century, before Captain James Cook’s arrival to Hawaii in 1778. Some etymologists believe “haole” is a combination of two Hawaiian words, ‘ha’ and “‘ole,” which mean ‘breath’ and ‘not.’ Linguists still debate whether “haole” is meant to suggest that foreigners have “no breath,” but the reality on these islands is that people from all backgrounds are equally embraced and cherished. Today, the word “haole” simply means “foreigner”, and it is used to describe anything foreign (like an invasive plant species). In some cases, it is used as a substitute for “white person”. For instance, when someone cannot walk barefoot on hot or pebbled ground, s/he has “haole feet”. The term is often used casually and jokingly to describe weakness but, in reality, it should be taken with a grain of salt. Hawaii has a lot to be proud of when it comes to diversity.
Proportionately, Asians outnumber white residents in Hawaii 2:1 (45% Asian; 22% Caucasian; 10% Hawaiian; 23% other). The fact that Caucasians are considered foreigners anywhere in the United States is quite surprising to tourists. Really, it is a mark of its racial diversity and blend of cultures and traditions. Individuals from all walks of life are neighbors, friends, and loved ones.
Being such a culturally rich place, Hawaii prides itself in its diversity and Polynesian history. This overriding sense of community (or “ohana”) here on the islands allows visitors to see its real beauty. So, the pervasiveness of the term “haole” in conversation does not accurately represent the true diversity and warmth of Hawaii. Your experience on these islands and interactions with locals will paint a brighter, more accurate picture of the “ohana” that is alive and well in Hawaii.
Hawaii’s current governor, Linda Lingle, describes how “ohana” functions on these islands when she says, “We are a state that turns challenges into opportunities; that has survived and thrived on the most remote island chain on the surface of this globe. I am inspired by the people of Hawaii who have demonstrated for generations that we are one of the few places on this earth where people of different races, colors, creeds, religions, nationalities, and appearances can live in harmony.” With a growing population of over one million, Hawaii boasts a racially diverse melting pot of people from all walks of life, cultures, traditions, and backgrounds. So, being “haole” is not so much a condescension. Rather, it is a way to see how wonderfully rich the cultural landscape of this state really is.
