Empowering Change: How UH West Oʻahu Tackles Health Inequities Through Innovative Education

Hawaiian values teach students that health is more than just biology; it encompasses social, cultural, and spiritual aspects linked to their environment.

Colonialism has deeply affected Hawaiʻi, altering its politics and economy, and it continues to impact the health of its people. Issues like water contamination at Red Hill and high rates of homelessness reflect ongoing inequities. Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders experience high rates of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma, along with shorter life expectancies. Alarmingly, nearly one in three young adults in the region report experiencing symptoms of depression.

In West Oʻahu, families struggle with access to healthcare. Resources are mostly available in Honolulu, forcing residents to travel farther for care. This is compounded by environmental challenges such as water contamination and wildfire risks. Unfortunately, the state often prioritizes tourism and military interests over community healthcare needs, further widening the gap.

The University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu (UHWO) is actively working towards health equity. Programs like Makahaiwaʻa address food insecurity through partnerships with organizations like Aloha Harvest and Food Vault Hawaiʻi West. Weekly food distributions at local centers help alleviate immediate needs for students and families.

Faculty members are committed to community welfare. For instance, Dr. Orlando Santiago-García has developed a Social Science, Health, and Medicine Certificate that merges academic learning with community engagement. This program equips students to tackle real-world challenges like the social impacts of Red Hill’s water issues or food insecurity in the area.

Moreover, new leadership at UHWO aims to strengthen ties between community colleges and the university. Carlos Peñaloza’s dual role as chancellor enhances opportunities for first-generation and underserved students, providing a clearer path toward education and health careers that are critical for Hawaiʻi’s future.

The certificate blends structure with flexibility, enabling students to integrate various disciplines. For example, they analyze pressing social issues or develop projects that address community needs—all while navigating barriers to education.

Cultural values such as lōkahi (balance), mālama ʻāina (care for the land), and kuleana (responsibility) are central to this approach. Students learn to view health as interconnected with their social and cultural contexts, equipping them with a holistic perspective.

As a new member of the UHWO faculty, I bring expertise in the interplay of spirituality and health, particularly in Black communities. The shared experiences of resilience in both Black and Native Hawaiian communities inspire my commitment to addressing health inequities.

Despite the history of colonialism, education at UH West Oʻahu serves as a powerful tool for healing and transformation. This collaborative effort not only targets inequities but also honors Indigenous values, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all.

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