Cultural Respect, Integrity & Community Relationship – FAQ

Is ManaFest culturally respectful to Hawaiians and local community?

Yes. ManaFest is created in relationship with Hawaiian cultural advisors and practitioners and is guided by protocol, respect, and ongoing consultation. Nearly 25% of our workshops and approximately 15% of our performers are Native Hawaiian, and many more are involved as advisors and community guides.

We are committed to pono practice, not performative inclusion.

Does ManaFest appropriate Hawaiian culture?

No. ManaFest does not use Hawaiian culture as an aesthetic, theme, or commodity. Cultural offerings are shared by Hawaiian practitioners themselves, in ways that feel correct and aligned to them. We do not recreate or reinterpret sacred practices. We honor what is offered and we respect what is not.

How are Hawaiian voices included?

Hawaiian voices are included as:

  • Workshop leaders

  • Performers

  • Cultural advisors

  • Ceremony holders

  • Community guides

Their presence is integral, not symbolic, and their guidance directly shapes how ManaFest is held.

Have there ever been concerns raised?

Yes. Over the years, one concern was recently brought to us by a community member. We listened, engaged in dialogue, made adjustments, and the matter has since been resolved. We share this openly because we believe accountability and transparency are part of integrity.

What does “pono” mean in the context of ManaFest?

For us, pono means:

  • Acting with integrity

  • Being in right relationship with land and people

  • Listening when corrected

  • Making changes when needed

  • Choosing humility over defensiveness

We do not claim to be perfect. We claim to be sincere, accountable, and devoted to doing this in a good way.

How does ManaFest support the local community?

We support the local community by:

  • Hiring local practitioners, musicians, and facilitators

  • Paying Hawaiian teachers for their expertise and leadership

  • Uplifting Hawaiian voices and lineages

  • Contributing to local economy and community wellbeing

  • Building & growing long-term relationships

  • Creating over 120 gig jobs each year!

ManaFest is held in Hawaiʻi, honoring the deep spiritual, ancestral, and cultural resonance of these lands. We gather here with reverence, not entitlement. We understand — it is a living, breathing ancestor.

We offer 50% off all tickets for Native Hawaiians- with the Discount Code: 50KANAKAHAWAII