Explore the dynamic crossroads of law, indigeneity, and climate justice with two extraordinary voices: Julian Aguon, the founder of Blue Ocean Law, and our host for this profound dialogue, Professor Kapua Sproat from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
In this episode, you'll hear Julian and Kapua explore the critical need for community and solidarity in the face of the climate crisis, especially as it impacts vulnerable Pacific communities. They discuss the vital role of storytelling and the arts in igniting social movements and reminding us of our shared humanity and potential. Julian shares compelling insights into the landmark, though ultimately unsuccessful, case of Davis v. Guam, shedding light on the complexities of self-determination and the limitations of current legal frameworks when grappling with the legacy of colonization.
The conversation also beautifully navigates the profound connection between indigenous peoples and their ancestral lands, highlighting the deep grief and injustice of displacement while underscoring the fundamental human longing for freedom and belonging. Despite acknowledging the constraints of the legal system, Julian articulates a hopeful vision for law as a tool to protect indigenous rights and empower communities to be at the forefront of solving the planetary crisis.
Prepare to be moved and inspired as Julian and Kapua weave together personal reflections, legal analysis, and powerful calls to action. You’ll hear about the political significance of grief, the essential roles of both anger and love in driving social change, and ultimately, a message of hope for the future, especially for young indigenous leaders. The episode culminates in a moving reading of Julian’s poem, "gaali," leaving us with a lingering sense of connection and purpose.
So, tune in as we embark on this vital conversation with Julian Aguon and Kapua Sproat, recorded right here in Honolulu, a testament to the ongoing work and resilience of Pacific communities in the face of unprecedented challenges. Let's listen and learn together.
A prolific essayist, Julian Aguon is the author of No Country for Eight-Spot Butterflies (2022), which Junot Díaz calls “a breathtaking book . . . alive with passion, wisdom, and heart.” Aguon is the founder of Blue Ocean Law, a progressive firm that works at the intersection of Indigenous rights and environmental justice, and he serves on the Global Advisory Council of Progressive International.
Kapuaʻala Sproat (Moderator) is the director of the Ka Huli Ao Center for Excellence in Native Hawaiian Law at the University of Hawaiʻi.