Oli for Palmyra

Part of Hawaiian protocol is to ask permission before entering a place. For our trip to Palmyra Atoll we knew we needed to follow in the footsteps of our kūpuna (ancestors) and request that the land, ocean and life of Palmyra allow us to become a part of their mo‘olelo (history).

Dr. Sam ‘Ohukani‘ōhi‘a Gon, senior scientist and cultural advisor for the Nature Conservancy of Hawai‘i, kindly composed this oli komo or entry chant specifically for this voyage to Palmyra. Speaking of the wonders of Palmyra Atoll and the interconnectedness of life, we will chant Oli Komo No Palamila upon our arrival.

Photo Credit: The Nature Conservancy