Child Welfare Services

Cultural Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Training

PROJECT DETAILS

CLIENT: Child Welfare Services
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH: Nā Kama A Hāloa
ROLE: Graphic Design
SLIDE COUNT: 45 Slides

In 2021, Hawaii’s foster care system included approximately 2,500 children, with over 44% being of Native Hawaiian ancestry. Nā Kāma a Hāloa, a community-based network formed in 2018, aims to incorporate Native Hawaiian wisdom and perspectives into the foster care system. The network consists of more than 15 agencies and organizations, including the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and Kamehameha Schools. It also involves Native Hawaiian foster and birth parents and youths with firsthand experience in child welfare. One of its committees, Hui Kauhale, develops programs to enhance understanding of Native Hawaiian culture among child welfare workers, leading to better outcomes for children and families.

Hui Kauhale’s projects, supported by organizations like Casey Family Programs and the Annie E. Casey Foundation, include a training module titled “Understanding Cultural Diversity, Inclusion & Equity: A Native Hawaiian Perspective.” This training aims to provide child welfare staff with a deep understanding of Hawaiian history, culture, and values to improve their effectiveness. Emphasizing cultural metaphors like kalo (taro) and fundamental Hawaiian values such as aloha and ʻohana, the training aspires to help workers approach their roles with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to healing and supporting families.

(More details + photos to come)

***Please do not download images/slides. Property of Child Welfare Services & Nā Kama A Hāloa.