Presented by Sustainable Coastlines Hawaiʻi and the King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center, CIVICS ON TRIAL brought community members together for a free, one-day workshop exploring how civic engagement can create meaningful change within government and in our communities.

Through hands-on activities, conversation, creativity, and collaboration, attendees explored practical ways to engage with the systems that shape their lives and discovered approaches to civic participation that felt authentic to them.

The day featured three interactive workshops:

UNDERSTAND — Understanding the Honolulu City Charter: What’s on the Ballot This November?
Facilitated by urban agroecologist Kima Wassel Hardy (Founder of Earth Innovation) and Brandon Makaʻawaʻawa (Vice President of The Nation of Hawaiʻi), attendees examined how Charter amendments reach the ballot and explored proposed amendments addressing food security, ʻŌiwi resources, the Charter preamble, affordable housing, and ranked-choice voting.

CREATE — How a Bill Comes to Life: Power Mapping
Facilitated by Hawaiʻi State Representatives Amy Perruso and Tina Grandinetti and Honolulu City Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam, attendees explored how ideas become public policy and practiced identifying the people, institutions, relationships, and networks that shape the legislative process.

IMAGINE — Listen to Our Leo! Empowering Voices Through Creativity
Facilitated by Maile and Hanohano Naehu (aka Queen Maile and Paniolo Prince), attendees explored Hawaiian cultural practices rooted in moʻolelo, ʻōlelo noʻeau, and mele to explore how creative expression can foster dialogue, strengthen community, and inspire action.

CIVICS ON TRIAL offered an opportunity to learn, connect, find one’s voice, and explore meaningful ways to participate in civic life.