Hawaiian hula dancers honor Father Damien with unique performance in Belgium

A unique cultural exchange unfolded in Tremelo, Belgium, as two Hawaiian hula dance groups paid homage to Father Damien, a revered Belgian missionary. The groups, Na U’i o Kawailoa and Ahuna Ohana, performed a traditional hula dance at the Woonzorgcentrum Damiaan, a care facility named in his honor.

This visit is part of the dancers' participation in the Bonheidansfestival in Bonheiden. Before taking the festival stage, they made a special stop in Tremelo to visit the Damiaan Museum. The connection between Father Damien and Hawaii remains strong, stemming from his 19th-century work on the island of Molokai, where he ministered to people suffering from leprosy.

"The circle is completely round for us," said Kumu, a teacher from the Na U’i o Kawailoa dance school. "On Molokai, we visited the place where his hand rests, and here in Tremelo, we were able to visit his birthplace and offer flower garlands, songs, and dance. It shows our students how strong the bond between our ancestors and Belgium still is today."

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The circle is completely round for us. On Molokai, we visited the place where his hand rests, and here in Tremelo, we were able to visit his birthplace and offer flower garlands, songs, and dance. It shows our students how strong the bond between our ancestors and Belgium still is today.

The performance, held in the entrance hall of the care center, allowed residents and local community members to witness the tribute. Mayor Bert De Wit expressed his admiration for the dancers' dedication and enthusiasm. "It is wonderful to see how these people dance and sing with such conviction and enthusiasm to honor Father Damien," he stated. "They truly gave their best to do something in return for Tremelo. It is truly unique to experience."

Father Damien's legacy of care, commitment, and solidarity continues to inspire people far beyond Belgium, as demonstrated by this heartfelt performance from Hawaii.

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It is wonderful to see how these people dance and sing with such conviction and enthusiasm to honor Father Damien. They truly gave their best to do something in return for Tremelo. It is truly unique to experience.