Moved by the community discourse around the release of prisoners due to COVID-19 outbreaks in correctional facilities, KS Kapālama then sixth grader Aubree K-Aloha saw that a great injustice was taking place. Many members of the public were labeling ex-convicts as bad and dangerous people.
Aubree knew from experience that this wasn’t true. Her uncle and grandfather were incarcerated and were neither bad nor dangerous. With justice in mind, she applied for and was awarded a grant from Ceeds of Peace – a nonprofit that helps young leaders build sustainable, just and peaceful communities. She enlisted the help of ‘Ekolu Mea Nui, a group that transforms Hawai‘i’s criminal justice system through Hawaiian cultural practices and values. This gave her a platform to share positive stories about former inmates.
“Not all incarcerated people are bad,” Aubree said. “I interviewed two people who became successful who came out of prison. I wanted to change the perspectives of the greater community that people can be successful after incarceration. A lot of people focus on the bad stuff and you want them to remember the good side of what they are doing as well.”
Aubree’s passion extends beyond righting social injustices. The aspiring marine biologist also creates a more sustainable community by practicing the value of mālama.
“I’ve always been really connected to the water, and it’s sad to see all the marine life dying right now, so I want to make an impact on that too. I also like to help out as much as possible – like doing ‘aina work and beach cleanups.”
Aubree has shown a remarkable level of empathy for such a young person. And despite the negativity in the world, her faith in humanity remains strong.
“My hopes for the people of the community would be that they could stop judging others even if they’re incarcerated. Also to know that people can have second chances. I also hope that people will put their hands into the ‘āina and into the kai to make them flourish to return them to the way it was back then – momona or abundant.”
