The Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation (HLLF) invites the public to its first Rainbow Town Hall of 2025, a conversation exploring the Māhū identity and its intersection with the Western concept of LGBTQIA+.

The discussion will delve into the cultural, historical and social nuances that define Māhū while also examining the evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs on the continental United States. The town hall aims to foster greater understanding and advocacy for diversity and equity within Hawaiʻi’s unique cultural context.

This free event takes place at Mission Memorial Auditorium on Thursday, February 20, from 6 to 8 p.m., and will include a panel discussion, Q&A, and time for networking and pau hana with hosted drinks and pupus.

Panelists will include:

Emily Hills, ACLU HI, Senior Attorney
Trey Halliday Fenton, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Author
Maddalynn Sesepasara, Hawaiʻi Health and Harm Reduction Center, Transgender Services Manager

The discussion will be hosted by Kamaka Pili, TV personality and host of Aloha Authentic, and special thanks go to location sponsor the Mayor’s Office of Culture and Art, and media partner Hawaii News Now.

As part of HLLFʻs Pride365 year-round programming, Rainbow Town Halls are unique opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ / MVPFAFF+ community to come together and form meaningful connections. HLLF is excited to work with our sponsors and community partners to create enriching evenings to learn from one another, celebrate diversity, and foster collaboration within our vibrant community.

This event is free and open to all, but an RSVP is required to attend.