Events

Upcoming & Ongoing Events


Event | In-Person
LIBRARY

Every Story Matters: Celebrating the Freedom to Read in Hawaiʻi

Hawaiʻi is celebrating "Every Story Matters Week" from October 4–10, 2026, to champion intellectual freedom and the freedom to read. Coinciding with the American Library Association’s national Banned Books Week, this statewide initiative brings together the ACLU of Hawaiʻi, the Hawaiʻi Association of School Librarians, the Hawaiʻi Library Association, and the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System to encourage community dialogue and highlight diverse perspectives.
Oct 04, 2026 | 12:00 AM (HST)
Event | In-Person & Virtual
LIBRARY

HoMA - The Librarians

Director: Kim A. Snyder Duration: 88 min Year: 2025 Register - here Admission to this film is free with registration, courtesy of the Hawaiʻi Library Association, American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi, Friends of the Library of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Association of School Librarians, and University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Library & Information Science Program. If you thought libraries wouldn’t make dramatic subject matter for a documentary, this film will change your mind. America’s war on books is about more than words. Librarians are being criminally investigated and arrested. In this moving—and shocking—look at the government’s attack on librarians, these individuals who are traditionally seen as mild-mannered pillars of communities across the country emerge as first responders in the fight for democracy and our First Amendment Rights. As they well know, controlling the flow of ideas means control over communities. In Texas, the Krause List targets 850 books focused on race and LGBTQia+ stories—it hastriggered sweeping book bans across the US at an unprecedented rate. As tensions escalate, librarians connect the dots from heated school and library board meetings nationwide to lay bare the underpinnings of extremism fueling the censorship efforts. Despite facing harassment, threats, and laws aimed at criminalizing their work—the librarians’ rallying cry for freedom to read is a chilling cautionary tale. Post-screening discussion with Stacey Aldrich (State Librarian, Hawaiʻi State Public Library System), Danielle Fujii (School Librarian, Kalaheo High School; Former President of the Hawaiʻi Association of School Librarians), and Leilani Stacy (Immigrants' Rights Attorney, ACLU of Hawaiʻi) to follow. Moderated by Jenny Foster (State Law Librarian, and former President of both the Hawaiʻi Library Association and the American Association of Law Libraries).
Oct 04, 2026 | 2:00 PM (HST)
Event | Virtual
NKVE_Oct 14 Training_mobilize (1)_20261001133002884011

No Kings Coalition: Know Your Federal Voting Rights on 10/14

Ensuring every eligible American can exercise their right to vote freely, safely, and without intimidation during these elections will take all of us. On Wednesday, October 14th at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT / 3PM HST, join the No Kings Coalition for a Know Your Federal Voting Rights Training. We’ll cover our federal voting rights, potential barriers to voter participation, and ways you can access disability-related accommodations and language assistance at the polls.
Oct 14, 2026 | 3:00 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person
HNLPRIDE

Honolulu Pride

Honolulu Pride 2026: Schedule & Details Theme: Hoʻomau: Pride that Endures & ThrivesDates: October 14 – October 18, 2026ACLU of Hawaiʻi Presence: Festival Booth & Parade Marchers 🗓️ SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 (MAIN EVENTS) Honolulu Pride Parade Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Location/Route: Starts at Magic Island and proceeds down Kalākaua Avenue through Waikīkī. Admission: Free and open to the public. Come cheer on the ACLU of Hawaiʻi contingent! Honolulu Pride Festival Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Location: Tom Moffatt Waikīkī Shell & Diamond Head Greens Admission: Free (VIP tickets available separately). Details: Features over 70 community booths, live local music, food vendors, and a dedicated Deaf/Allies space with ASL access. Be sure to stop by the ACLU of Hawaiʻi booth for resources and advocacy gear. 📅 HONOLULU PRIDE WEEK AT A GLANCE Oct 14 (Wed): Kick-Off Pau Hana | International Market Place | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM Oct 15 (Thu): Pride Concert ft. Big Freedia | Hawaiʻi Theatre Center Oct 16 (Fri): Official Opening Party | Scarlet Honolulu | 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM Oct 17 (Sat): Pride Parade & Festival (Details above) Oct 17 (Sat): Official After Party | Hula’s Bar and Lei Stand | 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM Oct 18 (Sun): Pride Drag Brunch | ʻAlohilani Resort | 11:00 AM Oct 18 (Sun): "Hangover" Closing Party | Location TBA
Oct 17, 2026 | 12:00 AM (HST)
Event | In-Person
NOKINGSOCT

No Dictators: Vote Early [Hawai‘i State Capitol, Honolulu]

Event Details Hawaiʻi State Capitol Location: 415 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96813 Date & Time: October 17, 2026 (Check local Mobilize Page for exact morning/afternoon timing updates) Focus: Nonpartisan voter registration checks, absentee ballot preparation, and making a plan to vote early. St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church (Waiʻanae / Kapolei area) Location: 85-787 Farrington Hwy, Waiʻanae, HI 96792 Date & Time: October 17, 2026 Focus: Community voter education alongside open food distribution shelves About the Movement We decide who represents us. We decide what comes next. For more than a year, millions of people have come together to reject the idea that power belongs to kings, billionaires, or politicians who believe they are above the people and the law. Now, we are taking the next step, turning people power into voter power. Unlike previous No Kings actions, No Dictators: Vote Early, is not purely a protest. Instead, on October 17th, it's a day of nonpartisan voter participation: we are bringing our community together to make a plan to vote early and ensuring every eligible voter understands their options for how to vote and has the opportunity to make their voice heard. Because no one person gets to decide our leaders before voters do. On October 17th, join us in local events across the country as we get out the early vote and say it loud: no thrones, no crowns, no dictators. *No Dictators: Vote Early events are nonpartisan and are designed to increase participation from all eligible voters. A core principle behind all No Dictators events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events. Accessibility This event meets ADA standards
Oct 17, 2026 | 11:00 AM (HST)
Event | Virtual
CSCM

Clean Slate Coalition Meeting

The ACLU of Hawaiʻi is proud to stand alongside community partners, faith leaders, and directly impacted families as a founding member of the Clean Slate Hawaiʻi coalition. As we prepare for the crucial 2027 legislative push to pass an automated record-shielding law, we are inviting our members and local advocates to join the campaign's very first coalition meeting. Event Details Event: Clean Slate Hawaiʻi Coalition Meeting Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Our Goal: Learn why this campaign is a critical pillar of our pretrial and penal code reform efforts, what legislative strategy lies ahead, and how you can take action. Why the ACLU of Hawaiʻi is Fighting for Clean Slate Our current criminal legal system creates a permanent underclass by trapping people in a cycle of poverty long after they have completed their sentences. In Hawaiʻi, a criminal record acts as a lifelong barrier to basic needs like safe housing, steady employment, and higher education. We believe that wealth should not determine freedom, and past mistakes should not dictate a person's future. By implementing an automated record-shielding system, Hawaiʻi can remove these systematic hurdles, uphold true constitutional rights, and ensure that individuals who have earned their second chance can fully support their families and uplift our communities. How to Take Action This inaugural meeting is your chance to get on the ground floor of a major civil rights victory. Attendees will receive a briefing on the campaign's upcoming milestones, including the state task force's November report and our coordination strategies for the 2027 legislative session. Register now
Oct 28, 2026 | 6:00 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person
FAITH

Faith & Politics — Difficult Conversations on the Rise of Christian Nationalism

Defending our civil liberties means confronting the forces that seek to undermine them. Join the ACLU of Hawaiʻi, alongside our partners at The Interfaith Alliance Hawai'i, Faith in Action, and Mindful Hawai'i, for a critical community panel discussion: "Faith & Politics: Difficult Conversations on the Rise of Christian Nationalism." Together, we will explore the rise of Christian Nationalism, its threat to religious freedom and democratic institutions, and how we can protect pluralism in our communities. 🗓️ Event Details Date: Thursday, October 29 Doors Open: 5:30 p.m. Program: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. RSVP: bit.ly/faithandpolitics2026
Oct 29, 2026 | 5:30 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person
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Waiʻanae Expungement Clinic

Join us for a free community legal clinic dedicated to helping you clear your record and secure your future. Presented by the ACLU of Hawaiʻi in partnership with local community organizations, the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary, the Office of the Public Defender, the UH Mānoa William S. Richardson School of Law, and the Hawaiʻi Workers Center, this event offers free, vital legal resources directly to the Waiʻanae community. Old or minor legal entanglements should not prevent you from securing stable housing, advancing your education, or finding meaningful employment. At this clinic, volunteer legal professionals will be on-site to assist community members with navigating the expungement process and addressing minor legal barriers safely and entirely free of charge. Event Details Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Location: Waiʻanae Coast Comprehensive Health Center (WCCHC) Main Campus Address: 86-260 Farrington Hwy, Waiʻanae, HI 96792 Services Offered Arrest Record Expungement: Assistance clearing qualified, non-conviction arrest records. Bench Warrant Recalls: Help resolving outstanding district court bench warrants safely. Streamlined Legal Support: Take advantage of an automated expungement tool developed by the UH law school to significantly accelerate your application processing. Attendee Logistics & Information Parking: Free public visitor parking is available throughout the WCCHC campus. Capacity: The venue accommodates up to 230 participants. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nov 21, 2026 | 10:00 AM (HST)

Past Events


Event | In-Person
CIVICS ON TRIAL

CIVICS ON TRIAL - JHC in Partnership with Sustainable Coastlines

RSVP: https://form.typeform.com/to/ccQgNd5v Presented by Sustainable Coastlines Hawaiʻi and the King Kamehameha V Judiciary History Center Civic life can feel intimidating, inaccessible, or polarized—but meaningful change depends on an engaged community. CIVICS ON TRIAL is a free, one-day workshop inviting people of all backgrounds to explore how civic engagement can create change within government and in our communities. Through hands-on activities, conversation, creativity, and collaboration, participants will practice engaging with the systems that shape their lives, and explore ways to participate that feel authentic to them. The day features three interactive workshops: UNDERSTAND — Understanding the Honolulu City Charter: What’s on the Ballot This November? Facilitated by: Kima Wassel Hardy Every 10 years a Charter Commission is established to review the operations of City government and recommend amendments to the Charter. On November 3rd, twenty Honolulu City Charter amendments will be up for public vote. Learn how Charter amendments make their way to the ballot and how the public can shape this process. Participants will examine proposed amendments related to food security, ʻŌiwi resources, the Charter preamble, affordable housing, and ranked-choice voting. Review the proposed Honolulu City Charter amendments here: https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/oahuvotes   CREATE — From Idea to Bill: The Power Structures of Policy Creation Facilitated by: Hawaiʻi State Representatives Amy Perruso and Tina Grandinetti, and Honolulu City Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam How does an idea become public policy—and what role can you play? This workshop explores the people, institutions, relationships, and power structures involved in creating state-wide policy. Participants will learn how they can use their own voices, ideas, and connections to participate in the policymaking process through proposing legislation, submitting testimony, and coalition building. IMAGINE — Listen to Our Leo! Empowering Voices Through Creativity Facilitated by: Hanohano and Mailelani Naehu Civic engagement is also about culture, creativity, and the stories we share. Through storytelling, music, and cultural practice rooted in moʻolelo, ʻōlelo noʻeau, and mele, participants will craft creative writing pieces that foster dialogue, strengthen community, and inspire meaningful action. CIVICS ON TRIAL is more than a day of learning—it’s an opportunity to find your voice, connect with your community, and discover impactful ways to take part in civic life. FREE lunch will be provided to attendees who bring their own reusable container, utensils, and reusable water bottle.
Oct 03, 2026 | 9:00 AM (HST)
Event | In-Person
Women Leading Hawaiʻi Together Cover

Women Leading Hawaiʻi Together

Event Logistics Date & Time: Friday, October 2, 2026, from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM Location: University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, 2410 Campus Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, Architecture Building, Room 205 Cost: Admission is free, but registration is requested. Email [email protected] or scan QR code. Key Topics Leadership Pathways: Mentorship, education, and real-world opportunities. Civic Engagement: Amplifying women's voices in policy and government. Equity & Access: Tackling barriers in pay, childcare, healthcare, and more. Safe & Healthy Communities: Well-being, safety, and support for today and tomorrow. Hawaiʻi's Resilience: Building a more sustainable and inclusive future. Speakers & Organizers Featured Panelists: Hon. Jill Tokuda – Hawaiʻi's Second Congressional District (CD2) (Invited) Salmah Y. Rizvi – Executive Director, ACLU of Hawaiʻi Judith Mills Wong – President, League of Women Voters Hawaiʻi Llasmin Chaine – Executive Director, Hawaiʻi State Commission on the Status of Women Amelia Sofos – National President, College Democrats of America Lisa Valin – Undergraduate Chair & Instructor, Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies, UH Mānoa Moderator: Charlotte Char Bland – National Women's Political Caucus Vice President Membership West Contact: Cindy Carpenter (NWPC Hawaiʻi) at 949-306-9807
Oct 02, 2026 | 3:30 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person & Virtual
MAOLI THURS COVER

Ka Huli Aʻo - Maoli Thursday

Speakers & Panelists Davis Price – NDN Collective, Senior Domestic Policy Strategist Kyle Kajihiro, PhD – Assistant Professor, UH Ethnic Studies Rep. Ikaika Hussey – Hawai‘i House of Representatives, District 29 Noel Shaw – Hui Aloha ‘Āina, Nā Leo o Papakōlea Firewise Event Description A report released earlier this year takes a closer look at the impacts of the U.S. military’s presence in Hawai‘i as debates continue over the future of expiring leases on Public Land Trust lands. Its findings challenge widely-cited claims regarding the military’s economic and geopolitical benefits while exposing the negative costs that are underreported, including the effects on Hawaii’s environment, public health, housing affordability, and employment. Join this month’s panel for a timely discussion of the evidence, the competing perspectives surrounding military lands and leases, and the possibilities for demilitarization and self-determination. Together, they will examine what is at stake for Hawai‘i and consider how these decisions will shape her future. Registration Information Platform: Register for Zoom Link: https://go.hawaii.edu/TUR Visual Alternative: A QR code is provided on the flyer for direct scanning.
Oct 01, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Event | In-Person
HIIC COVER

Hawaiʻi Immigration & Inclusion Conference

EVENT DETAILS Hawaiʻi Immigration & Inclusion Conference Wednesday, September 30, 2026 9:00 AM –3:00 PM East-West Center John A. Burns Hall (1601 East-West Road Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96848) Registration: https://www.thehiic.org/registration A room for everyone working toward belonging. The Hawaiʻi Immigration and Inclusion Conference convenes leaders, advocates, policymakers, educators, employers, and community members to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s commitment to immigrant inclusion, equity, and belonging. Through plenary conversations, workshops, and networking opportunities, participants explore policies, programs, and community-driven solutions that support immigrant families, workers, youth, and multilingual communities across the state. The conference will be held at the East-West Center (John A. Burns Hall) in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi.
Sep 30, 2026 | 9:00 AM (HST)
Event | In-Person & Virtual
CDUT COVER

The Constitution During Uncertain Times

EVENT DETAILS The Constitution During Uncertain Times Wednesday, September 16, 2026 5:00–8:00 PM Ali'iōlani Hall (417 South King Street, Honolulu, HI 96813) Registration: https://www.jhchawaii.org/programs/ As the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of its Constitution, please join us for a thoughtful and timely presentation followed by a panel discussion regarding the importance of Constitutions, with a focus on Due Process and the Rule of Law, and historical case studies from at home and abroad where they have been undermined or eliminated. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and visit the “Relics of War: Justice, Culture, and Community in Times of Conflict” and “Martial Law in Hawaiʻi” exhibit displays in the King Kamehameha V, Judiciary History Center.
Sep 16, 2026 | 5:00 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person & Virtual
OUT OF STATE COVER

FREE FILM SCREENING & COMMUNITY LUNCH: "OUT OF STATE"

🗓️ HAWAʻI ISLAND WIDE TOUR SCHEDULE (All screenings start at 2:00 PM): Līhuʻe: Saturday, September 12 Hilo: Sunday, September 13 Wailuku: Saturday, September 19 Honolulu: Sunday, September 20 🎟️ REGISTRATION DETAILS:Admission is completely free, and a community lunch will be provided! Register Online: bit.ly/OUTOFSTATE
Sep 12, 2026 | 12:00 AM (HST)
Event | In-Person
Mālama Mākua Film Screening

Mālama Mākua Film Screening

EVENT DETAILS Mālama Mākua Screening Saturday, August 1 12:30–2:30 PM Downtown Hawaiʻi State Library (478 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813) Registration: bit.ly/makua-film Join us for a community screening of Mālama Mākua, a powerful documentary tracing the decades-long movement to protect and restore the sacred lands of Mākua Valley. The evening will begin with brief historical grounding, followed by the film screening Afterward, stay for a facilitated question-and-answer session guided by shared values that connects the film’s themes to ongoing civil liberties issues, including Native Hawaiian rights, climate justice, community safety, living wages, and representatio . Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees will have opportunities to reflect, connect, and engage with local organizations.
Aug 01, 2026 | 12:30 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person
Civil Rights in the Next250

Civil Rights In The Next 250

EVENT DETAILS Civil Rights in the Next250 Thursday, July 30th 4:30-6:00 pm Downtown Hawaiʻi State Library (478 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813) Registration: bit.ly/next250hi Join us for a community pau hana as we reflect on Hawaii's past, engage with today's civil rights challenges, and imagine the next 250 years together. Enjoy light refreshments while connecting with local organizations working on issues including safety and peace for all, a living wage, climate justice, reproductive rights, and voting rights. The evening will kick off with a brief introduction and lightning talks from local advocates. Exchange literature, zines, and opportunities to get involved, and participate in an interactive Vision Wall where community members of all ages can share their hopes for the future.
Jul 30, 2026 | 4:30 PM (HST)
Event | In-Person
A Historic Moment for Immigrants’ Rights: Community Advocates Join in a Day of Remembrance, Celebration, and Solidarity

A Historic Moment for Immigrants’ Rights: Community Advocates Join in a Day of Remembrance, Celebration, and Solidarity

Community advocates from the Campaign for Immigrant Justice led by the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi (“ACLU of HI”), the Hawaiʻi Coalition for Immigrant Rights (“HCIR”), and The Legal Clinic will join Governor Josh Green and other community organizations in commemorating the historic signing of major immigrant justice laws while also honoring those who have lost their lives in immigration detention and enforcement actions.   At a time when immigration enforcement actions adversely and dangerously impact communities across the country, Hawaiʻi is setting the standard with the signing of one of the strongest immigrant justice laws in the country. While this moment calls for relief and celebration from the many legislators and community advocates who supported, organized, and lobbied for this critical legislation, it also calls for a moment of reflection and remembrance of the nearly 60 individuals who have lost their lives while in immigration related detention and enforcement.  
Jul 28, 2026 | 12:30 PM (HST)