Living in Hawaii as a kid, I've watched television for a majority of my childhood, including channels such as Disney and Nick Jr. I loved seeing the characters interact with each other, usually finding a ridiculously planned solution to a not-so-big problem. Even now, I watch the occasional Spongebob, but I've noticed that some shows are set in Hawaii. I appreciate the humor and effort that goes into these episodes, but my family and I can't help but being somewhat offended when it comes to how Hawaii is portrayed.
Despite the fact that there are more channels that also do Hawaii themed episodes, I remember one in particular. In 2009 on Nick Jr., the Fresh Beat Band did a Hawaii themed episode called "Rock the Luau." Although Hawaii may have crystal blue water and white sandy beaches, we do not live in grass huts and wear neither coconut bras or grass skirts. I understand that this the main image that most people get of Hawaii, but it isn't accurate. It gives people the wrong perspective of Hawaii, which is misleading to most.
The Huffington Post wrote an article called "What You Think You Know About Hawaii is Actually Wrong." Myths and perspectives of Hawaii are debunked, such as everyone that lives here surfs, is Hawaiian, and Hawaii is it's own country. These are few of the many myths that contribute to the false image of Hawaii. In a local newspaper (The Honolulu Advertiser), reports went to the streets for more on these stereotypical experiences. One woman recalled that while at the airport, she said she was from Hawaii, and was then asked to show her international passport. As residents living in Hawaii, most of us are shocked that this still happens in modern society.
A while back, I visited California for camp. When I told people that I was from Hawaii, questions swarmed me about living in a hut, rowing from Hawaii to California in a canoe, and even speaking English. though slightly offended, I set their facts straight and asked where they had gotten the previous information they had spewed at me. Around a third of the answers I had gotten back were "Oh, I saw a show about it on (television channel/network)."
I understand that the stereotypical Hawaiian environment may mean more views and entertainment for children, but most of the activities, attire, and cultural events are not relative to most. Instead of creating semi-false ideas of Hawaii for children, maybe you could research about ancient Hawaii or specify on time periods. Hawaii has developed from living in grass huts to modern technology that can also be found anywhere from London to Sydney.
I have no oppositions about a show as a whole, just certain Hawaii themed episodes. most are greatly entertaining, humorous, and captivating, but please consider the stereotypes being taught to the viewers.
Sincerely,
Tiffany Agustin
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