The Hawaii Board on Geographic Names has voted to officially change the name of the 'Island of Hawai'i' to 'Hawai'i,' a move that will affect how the island is referenced in official state and federal documents. This decision, as reported by KHON2, aims to bring the island's nomenclature in line with the naming conventions used for the other islands in the Hawaiian chain, such as Maui and Oahu.
The proposal to change the name was initially discussed in March 2024, with board members highlighting the unique nature of the 'Island of Hawai'i' being the only island in the archipelago with the 'Island of' prefix. The change is primarily intended to streamline state agency practices, affecting maps, signage, and legal records. However, the alteration has sparked wider conversations about cultural identity and the history of the island. The Hawaii Tribune-Herald reported that the board sought public comment on the matter, signaling awareness of the potential impact the name change might have on tourism and cultural perceptions.
The renaming has prompted discussions about potential confusion, especially for visitors. Some residents, as noted by West Hawaii Today, have expressed concerns, suggesting that the existing unofficial name, 'Big Island,' is more commonly used and better understood by both locals and tourists. Despite these concerns, the board's decision underscores a commitment to consistency and honoring the island's identity.
While the name change primarily affects official government documentation, the impact may extend to the tourism and hospitality sectors. Businesses on the island, and those that market to the island, may need to update their branding and marketing materials to reflect the official change from 'Island of Hawai'i' to 'Hawai'i.' This potential alteration highlights the dynamic nature of place branding and the importance of adapting to evolving linguistic and cultural landscapes within the business environment of Hawaii.
