Mayor's Proclamation of HAMANA KALILI MEMORIAL DAY, inventor of the SHAKA gesture

Here is a transcription of the proclamation:

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU
PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, the late Hamana Kalili of Laie was born on June 16, 1880; and

WHEREAS, he is recognized by many island residents to be the originator of the popular "shaka" sign; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Kalili, who lost his three middle fingers in an accident, often waved to people by extending his thumb and little finger; and

WHEREAS, while he was employed as a sugar cane field guard for Kahuku Sugar Mill, children who stole the stalks for their personal eating enjoyment warned each other of his presence by signaling in that distinct manner; and

WHEREAS, youngsters who knew him as a counselor to the bishop in the first Laie Ward, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, further popularized the unique practice by imitating his gesture during his sermons; and

WHEREAS, today, the shaka sign conveys a lighthearted, yet genuine form of island greeting among the people of Hawaii and has even spread to other parts of the country through wide use,

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FRANK F. FASI, Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu do hereby proclaim June 16, 1986, as

HAMANA KALILI MEMORIAL DAY

in the City and County of Honolulu.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City and County of Honolulu to be affixed.

Done this 16th day of June, 1986, in Honolulu, Hawaii.

[Signature]
FRANK F. FASI, Mayor
City and County of Honolulu