‘Ohana Ho‘opakele: The Politics of Place in Corrective Environments

Design-based research

The article explores the innovative approach of ‘Ohana Ho‘opakele, a community-based initiative in Hawai‘i advocating for restorative justice through culturally rooted wellness centers called pu‘uhonua. Contrasting with Western punitive incarceration systems, these centers integrate Hawaiian practices like ho‘oponopono (conflict resolution) and sustainable land use within traditional ahupua‘a divisions. The paper critiques Hawaii’s carceral system, emphasizing the damaging displacement of Native Hawaiians and the racial disparities in imprisonment rates. By reclaiming indigenous traditions, the proposed wellness centers aim to heal cultural and personal traumas while reducing recidivism. The initiative also addresses systemic challenges, such as state skepticism and prioritization of cost-efficiency over rehabilitation. Ultimately, ‘Ohana Ho‘opakele exemplifies a place-based model that seeks to transform the justice system into a space of healing, community reintegration, and cultural resurgence.

The ‘Ohana Ho‘opakele project is deeply rooted in Hawaiian cultural values and principles of restorative justice. It challenges the punitive nature of Western carceral systems by focusing on healing, reconciliation, and reintegration. Rooted in Hawaiian traditions such as Ho‘oponopono (Conflict Resolution), Wellness Centers (Pu‘uhonua), Connection to ‘Āina (Land), pule (prayer), la‘au lapa‘au (traditional healing), and mahi‘ai (farming)

Change begins by restoring individuals’ connection to their heritage, land (‘āina), and traditional practices. This strengthens a sense of belonging, pride, and purpose. There is an emphasis on restoring harmony, the belief is rooted in the Hawaiian concept of pono—achieving balance and justice. Change happens when individuals and communities heal from past traumas and create systems that promote equity, respect, and well-being.

Historical research: Historical descriptions of traditional Hawaiian pu‘uhonua, spaces where individuals could seek refuge, undergo healing, and reintegrate into society, serve as evidence of successful indigenous restorative practices.

Design based research: Descriptions of the envisioned wellness center’s layout and functionality (e.g., open spaces, vocational training, sustainable living practices) are presented as tangible evidence of the feasibility of this alternative model

By engaging with local media, hosting community forums, and producing educational materials, the project spreads awareness about the harms of the current carceral system and the benefits of restorative approaches.

"The concept of the wellness center aims to restore the relationship of people to the land
and to one another... It signifies a potential shift in the meaning of carceral space to
healing space. ‘Ohana Ho‘opakele’s aim of re-creating Kulani as a modern day
pu‘uhonua is an investment in the local community and the locally indigenous
population for which land is of utmost significance" (p. 240)

Carceral studies
Legal studies
Geography and spacial studies