Peace in Action
Peace Pole Dedicated at Kalakaua Park in Hilo
Councilwoman Jenn Kagiwada led the dedication of a new granite Peace Pole at Kalakaua Park, marking the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Peace Poles, inscribed with “May Peace Prevail On Earth” in various languages, are part of a global initiative started by Japanese philosopher Masahisa Goi in 1955. The Hilo pole features eight languages, including Hawaiian and Japanese. November 22, Goi’s 105th birthday, is celebrated as Global Peace Pole Day.
The project was a collaboration between Kagiwada, the Rotary Club of South Hilo, granite stonemason Mike Sasaki, and the county Department of Parks and Recreation. Hilo High School's Japan Club performed “Light a Candle for Peace” in sign language. Attendees included Senator Lorraine Inouye and representatives from the mayor’s office. Kagiwada expressed hope that the Peace Pole would inspire public reflection on peace. The County Council earlier adopted a resolution promoting tolerance and opposing nuclear weapons. The project was funded by Kagiwada’s district contingency funds and the Rotary Club of South Hilo.
For more information, link to the Hawaii Tribune Herald article for November 24, 2025 here.
The fourth annual Peace Week took place on Hawaii Island from September 16 to 23, 2025, organized by the Rotary Clubs of Hawaii Island with collaboration and participation with The Mayor's Office, NAMI Hawaii, and Puna Hongwanji. This event aimed to promote peace through engaging activities, bringing together diverse communities. Key events included:
Sunrise Peace Reception: Held in Hilo, community members and leaders reflected on peace while sharing messages of hope at sunrise.
Rededication of the Peace Pole: At Kuhio Kalanianaole Park, the Peace Pole was rededicated as a symbol of global harmony.
Honokaa Peace Festival: Featuring cultural performances and workshops, this festival in Honokaa emphasized collaboration and understanding.
Peace Celebration at Puna Hongwanji: In Keaau, this event offered meditation, peace advocacy, and discussions on fostering deeper connections to peace.
Ring Your Bells for Peace: Bells chimed across the island, uniting communities in a call for peace and resonating with aloha spirit.
Peace Hula at Mo'oheau Bandstand: Traditional hula performances conveyed stories of peace and love, highlighting cultural heritage.
Sunset Peace Reception: Concluding at Old Kona Airport, this event celebrated the week’s achievements with a backdrop of a setting sun.
Overall, Peace Week 2025 emphasized understanding, respect, and collaboration, highlighting Hawaii's dedication to a peaceful future. Through these events, the commitment to peace left a lasting impact, positioning Hawaii as a beacon of hope for a harmonious world.