UH West Oʻahu Graduate Advocates for Indigenous Education at Commencement
UH West Oʻahu grad speaker on power of education for Indigenous communities
The University Of Hawaii System
Image: The University Of Hawaii System
Madison Nālei Kazue Fujitani, a graduate from the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu, emphasizes the significance of education for Indigenous communities during her commencement speech. She highlights the need for Indigenous presence in higher education and views knowledge as a tool for empowerment and resistance against historical injustices.
- 01Madison Nālei Kazue Fujitani will speak at the UH West Oʻahu commencement ceremony on May 9, 2026.
- 02She advocates for the importance of education in empowering Indigenous communities.
- 03Fujitani emphasizes the historical challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in higher education.
- 04She will graduate with a bachelor of arts in business administration, concentrating in marketing.
- 05Fujitani encourages transforming educational systems to better serve Indigenous students.
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Madison Nālei Kazue Fujitani, a graduate from the University of Hawaiʻi – West Oʻahu, will deliver a commencement speech on May 9, 2026, focusing on the transformative power of education for Indigenous communities, particularly Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians). Fujitani, who resides in Waiʻanae, believes that education should go beyond mere career prospects and serve as a tool for resistance and empowerment. She reflects on her journey as a Native Hawaiian student, recognizing the historical challenges Indigenous peoples have faced within the higher education system, which was often designed to limit their presence and knowledge. By reclaiming knowledge and stepping into influential roles, she advocates for a shift towards prioritizing Indigenous-serving institutions that benefit all students. Fujitani will graduate with distinction, earning a bachelor of arts in business administration with a concentration in marketing.
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Fujitani's message emphasizes the importance of education in empowering Indigenous communities, which could inspire more Native Hawaiians to pursue higher education.
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