Iolani Palace: A Symbol of Sovereignty and Resilience

On June 14th, our group of seven visited Iolani Palace, the only official royal residence in the United States. Located in the heart of downtown Honolulu, the palace once housed the Hawaiian Kingdom's ruling monarchs and today stands as a powerful symbol of both Hawaiian sovereignty and resilience.

Stepping inside, I was struck by the elegance of the space, the sweeping koa wood staircase, velvet-lined chairs, and intricate chandeliers all speak to the power of the aliʻi who once governed from these halls. I also appreciated the attention to detail throughout the palace such as the intricate iron work of the door hinges. But there is tension woven into the grandeur. The palace is also where Queen Liliʻuokalani was imprisoned for nearly eight months following the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893.

In what used to be her bedroom, she was confined with few belongings and only her diary for company. Our audio guide explained that she spent this time composing music and reflecting on the future of her people. The tour also explained how she channeled her emotion into creating a large quilt, each square is embroidered with names, dates, and phrases that reflect her love for her people.

One of the most striking parts of the tour was learning about how Queen Liliʻuokalani used symbols of monarchy not only to affirm her leadership but also to maintain dignity and resist U.S. imperialism. Her story is not one of defeat, but of continued defiance and care for her people. As we explored her personal artifacts such as handwritten music, letters, and royal garments, we were reminded that the palace isn't just a historical monument. It's an active site of memory and a call to acknowledge the injustices faced by the Native Hawaiian community.

For me, visiting Iolani Palace underscored how history is never neutral. It affirmed the importance of listening, learning, and recognizing the continuing legacies of colonization. As we move through this program, I hope to carry that lesson with me: to look beyond the surface, to ask difficult questions, and to honor stories that have long been silenced.