A popular space at the Center is our theater, where visitors can watch the short films featured below.
“Oni v. Meek” brings to life characters from an 1850’s case that illustrates a transitional period of land tenure in Hawaii. The presentation orients students and prepares them for the hands-on trial they reenact in our 1913 Courtroom.
“Law of the Land” focuses on the changes from traditional Hawaiian, shared use rights to the western concept of private property ownership. Land divisions, life in the ahupaa, the Great Mahele, and current land laws are subjects of this thought provoking presentation.
“Kanawai” chronicles the changing attitudes towards water and water usage in the 19th century. This presentation examines the landmark case of Peck v. Bailey and the transition from traditional Hawaiian land stewardship to a western system of private ownership.
“When Fear Reigned” delves into the declaration of martial law and the suspension of civil liberties in Hawaii during World War II. This presentation examines the writ of habeas corpus and the detainment without trial of over 1,000 residents of the territory of Hawaii.