03/12/2026
Gratitude and blessings !!
Dr. Kekuni Blaisdell was an extraordinary physician, scholar, activist, community leader, and Hawaiian visionary. He was integral to starting the University of Hawai‘i’s medical school, serving as the inaugural chairman of the Department of Medicine in 1966.
His research into Native Hawaiian well-being was groundbreaking, clearly illustrating the complex but undeniable connection between colonization and systemic health inequities.
Kekuniʻs academic contributions to the E Ola Mau assessment, ʻI hea nā Kanaka Maoli', traditional Hawaiian diet, and understanding social, cultural and historical determinants of health continue to inform and inspire new generations of Hawaiian health care professionals—of Hawaiians!
He was on the floor of Congress when the Native Hawaiian Health Act passed, establishing Papa Ola Lōkahi and the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems. He also had a personal hand in developing Ke Ola Mamo, Nā Pu‘uwai, ‘Ahahui ‘o nā Kauka, E Ola Mau, Kāhuna Lā‘au Lapa‘au ‘o Hawai‘i, the Department of Native Hawaiian Health at the medical school, and so much more in service to the greater lāhui.
Hauʻoli Lā Hānau e Kekuni. Your legacy lives on.
