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Interactive Workshop

Disability Issues

Interweaving Hawaiian Worldview, ‘Ohana, DanceAbility: Inclusive Movement for Joy, Connection, and Community

‘Ohana in Hawai‘i reflects deep interconnectedness, inclusion, and care—values mirrored in DanceAbility, an inclusive dance method embracing disability and diversity. This workshop uses movement to foster belonging, reduce isolation, and strengthen communities. Rooted in social justice and empowerment, it highlights how shared experiences create resilience, connection, and collective healing.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
  1. Upon completion, the participant will be able to describe how inclusive dance fosters social connection by embracing the Hawaiian value of ‘ohana, emphasizing belonging, reciprocity, and shared responsibility in reducing isolation.
  2. Upon completion, the participant will be able to demonstrate practical skills to use movement as a tool for joy, empowerment, and therapeutic engagement, reflecting the Hawaiian values of aloha (compassion) and lōkahi (unity and harmony).
  3. Upon completion, the participant will be able to describe inclusive dance as a tool for empowerment, social justice, and collective action, embodying pono (balance and justice) to ensure equity and accessibility for all.