Royal Order of the Star of Oceania

The Royal House of Keōua Nui, integral to the rich tapestry of Hawaiian history, traces its lineage back to the early 19th century, starting with King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom in 1810. This unification under the Kamehameha dynasty laid the groundwork for developing a modern Hawaiian state, blending traditional governance with influences brought by global interactions.

The Royal House, as established by Keōua Nui, father of Kamehameha I, has been a symbol of continuity amidst the shifting tides of political, social, and economic changes over the centuries. The monarchy played a pivotal role in navigating foreign influences and internal reforms. Notably, King Kalākaua, known for his visionary leadership, was instrumental in promoting a resurgence of Hawaiian culture and national pride during his reign in the late 19th century. He founded the Royal Order of the Star of Oceania in 1886 to foster alliances across the Pacific, demonstrating a proactive approach to international relations and cultural exchange.

However, the overthrow of Queen Lili’uokalani in 1893 marked a significant turning point, leading to the eventual annexation of Hawai’i by the United States in 1898. Despite these challenges, the descendants of the Hawaiian monarchy have continued to uphold their cultural heritage and advocate for the rights and recognition of Native Hawaiians.

In modern times, the Royal House of Keōua Nui, led by H.R.H. Princess Owana Kaʻōhelelani, plays a ceremonial and cultural role. It strives to preserve the legacies of its royal lineage, promoting education about Hawaiian history, language, and traditions. The re-establishment of traditional honors, such as the Royal Order of the Star of Oceania, underlines ongoing efforts to celebrate and perpetuate the significance of Hawai’i’s royal heritage in both local and international contexts.

The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania

The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania, established by King Kalākaua in 1886, was conceived as a mechanism to unite and build alliances across the Pacific. Its founding was part of King Kalākauai’s visionary plan to create a confederation of Polynesian nations and Pacific islands, aiming to strengthen regional ties and promote mutual interests against colonial expansion. The Order symbolized the King’s forward-thinking approach to international diplomacy and his commitment to advocating for the sovereignty and collaboration of island nations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania, originally established during the Hawaiian Kingdom’s monarchy, was abolished following the overthrow of Queen Lili’uokalani in 1893. This pivotal event not only marked the decline of the Hawaiian monarchy but also set in motion a series of political changes that culminated in the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands by the United States in 1898. The overthrow was a critical turning point in Hawaiian history, leading to the suppression of the islands’ sovereign institutions and cultural expressions for over a century.

After decades of dormancy, the Royal Order was revived in 2020 by H.R.H. Princess Owana Ka’ōhelelani, the senior heir to the House of Keoua Nui. This revival represents more than just a reinstatement of a historical order; it is a powerful statement of cultural resilience and a broader effort to reclaim and honor the Hawaiian people’s rich heritage and historical sovereignty. The reinstatement of the Order serves as a symbolic act of resistance against the erasure of Native Hawaiian identity and reaffirms the enduring significance of the Hawaiian monarchy’s legacy in contemporary times.

Today, the Royal Order of the Star of Oceania stands as a bridge between the past and the present, embodying the aspirations of the Hawaiian monarchy while evolving into a modern emblem of cultural recognition, advocacy, and educational excellence. The Order functions as a platform to support educational initiatives, cultural preservation, and the promotion of Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions. It plays a vital role in raising awareness of the historical and ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities in the Pacific, emphasizing the need to protect and celebrate their unique cultural identities.

Moreover, the Order’s revival reflects a commitment to fostering unity and cooperation among the diverse cultures of the Pacific region. Through its modern activities, the Order champions cultural diplomacy, seeking to promote mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration across cultural boundaries. By honoring achievements in education, arts, and community service, the Royal Order of the Star of Oceania continues to uphold its original mission: to recognize and celebrate excellence, nurture cultural pride, and promote the values of aloha, unity, and respect that are deeply embedded in Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions.

The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania thus not only honors its historical roots but also plays a dynamic role in contemporary efforts to empower and uplift Pacific islander communities. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Hawaiian monarchy and a beacon of hope for future generations committed to cultural preservation, education, and the pursuit of sovereignty and self-determination.

The diploma is in Hawaiian and reflects the same text usually seen in such documents. Below is a translation:

Her Royal Highness Princess Owana Ka’öhelelani, Head of the Royal House of Hawai’i, hereby issues this Charter to affirm and uphold our fundamental values and virtues. It is with a deep commitment to the pursuit of true goodness that I address you,

James Patrick Howard II
Knight Commander
Royal Order of the Star of Oceania

In your official capacity and as part of your inclusion, you may wear the honors representing your distinguished merit and noble character. In recognition of these attributes, this Diploma was expediently issued on March 17, 2024, in the district of Hilo in Hawai’i.

Or you can download the PDF here.