Today marks the 180^th anniversary of the Hawaiian Kingdom holiday, Lā Kūʻokoʻa! Lā Kūʻokoʻa is known as Hawaiʻi’s National Independence Day, celebrates the signing of the Anglo-Franco proclamation recognizing Hawaiʻi’s independence on November 28, 1843.

Kamehameha III (born Kauikeaouli) (March 17, 1814 – December 15, 1854) sent envoys, including Timoteo Ha‘alilio, who secured the recognition of Hawaiʻi’s independence by Great Britain and France with the signing of the Anglo-French proclamation on November 28th, 1843, making the Hawaiian Kingdom the first non-European nation welcomed into the Family of Nations.

Over the next 50 years the Hawaiian Kingdom signed treaties with major world nations and established over 90 legations and consulates around the world. These nations included Persia (modern day Iran) who was ruled by the Qajar dynasty during the 19^th century.

This performance by 8×8 artists, Pua Ali’I ‘Ilima, Vicky Holt Takamine & Jeff Takamine, “Ō Mai O Kalākaua” in Shangri La’s Qajar gallery honors that relationship, highlighting the importance of the Hawaiian Kingdom on the international stage.

This year, Bishop Museum is celebrating Lā Kūʻokoʻa with a special event and panel discussion including Kumu Vicky Holt Takamine.