Big mahalo to you for watching and sharing your comments. This was a very vulnerable episode to post, but I wanted to share my perspective and appreciate you being open to listening. Aloha🤙🏾
I am a black woman and I went to Hawaii recently. I was pulled over by the cops and put my hand out the window to show I didn’t have any weapons. When he came to my car he said “mam we don’t do that around here” 😂 my kids were in the car with me and we all laughed so hard!!! ℹ immediately I was like ok we’re moving here ❤
Okay...I. JUST. HOLLERED!!! 😂😂😂The way you have me laughing right now. Hahaha! You put your hands out the window! It's trueeeee...they don't do that here. But it's horrible that we have that reflex right? I about do the same. I keep my hands on the wheel...everything is "yes, sir...no ma'am" It's gone left on me one time too many and it scars you forever. I was talking to a group of black people a month ago, and we all agreed to be seen like everyone else is amazing! No place is without its challenges, but it's so nice to not feel targeted.
I was pulled over in Aiea one night and I told him ‘I have to get my registration out of the glove box’ and the police officer said ‘obviously, hurry up’ 😅
Just so you know Honolulu has a wonderful NAACP Branch. Very friendly and social. I hope you enjoy living in Hawaii. I used to teach at Castel HS in the 90's. Aloha!
I just returned from a four island visit and it was absolutely heaven. I experienced an episode or too from people who were not Hawaiian - Kanaka Maoli/Kananka Oiwi/Lahui . Also in Waikiki. They were Haole. These rude people brought their issues with them to this beautiful place. I kept the aloha spirit and didn't let their ignorance both me though.
Theres no black neighborhoods here, that includes no bad/poor/dangerous black neighborhoods. Realistically people will assume you have a good job here and are a veteran or active duty if you are black here and not homeless looking. The bad neighborhoods are the microneasians living in section 8 housing. They dont have black people in section 8 here. Its extremely expensive here so if you came from the mainland and are black they figure you have a decent job.
You are right about that. People will assume you are military or have a good government job...I am not military nor government so people's eyes really light up when I say I am not. They are like whaaaaa??? lol
I am so inspired by you. I visited Hawaii last May and have been obsessed ever since. You're right, Hawaii has a vibe of mental/physical wellness as opposed to the toxicity of the mainland. I would love to see a video about your journey of leaving California and securing a job and housing in Hawaii? Do you have any tips for people who are serious about moving to Hawaii but don't know where to start? 😅
Big mahalo to you! I appreciate you watching! What island did you visit? I wasn't here for 24 hours and I knew this was a special place and would be home for me. Hawai'i is magical...and that's the only way I know how to describe it. There is so much healing this island gives. Ooooh...you know what? I might have to consider doing that episode. The one tip I would have is to try and have a job before you get here, it will make things much easier! Also...try and get a remote job so you can work outside because it's gorgeous. It's honestly very hard to work here because it's so beautiful. The bills keep coming so you figure it out lol ...but it's hard to work here b/c it's so pretty it's distracting. You just want to look all day. lol
@@dwaynearoundtownLast May I spent a week in Oahu and one day on the Road to Hana in Maui…that was the most peaceful week of my life. And the food was everything! Thank you for the tip! I spent this morning applying jobs in my field. In the meantime, I’m watching your videos to plan a April-ish trip to get my Aloha fix. I can’t wait for your next posts…there’s so much to learn! 🥰🌴 🌺
Local here and I thank you for this. We have a long way to go, but we are trying - together with all of our chop suey races - to live with LOVE❤ Messages such like yours helps spread the LOVE❤❤
Born and raised kanaka maoli, regardless of where you're from or your ethnic background, just remember, you're a resident, not a kama'aina or a hawaiian. That's the one thing us locals, born and raised and native hawaiians, cannot stand, people who move here thinking they're real locals. Btw HPD veteran here, we treat you the way you act. ADR Approach Determines Response
Yes I love Hawaii, lived in Honolulu for a few years and the police said hello and were friendly, it freaked me out at first bc used to being racially profiled in the US "mainland" but then I realized its just Aloha. And yes there were also some folks, mainly older Asian folks who were discriminating and acting like I had the plague when I sat on da bus, getting up when I sat down or crowded bus and none of them sitting with me, like back in the Jim Crow days in the US, but its just ignorance and anti blackness. I made friends with many of the locals and kama aina who were real cool and understood what a lot of us Black folks deal with bc its the same colonizer and its their land! Aloha.
Thank you for sharing!! I love Hawa'ii because of this reason! People of African ancestry have been noted to have lived on the island as early as the 16th century. You are home!!
As a Black American who visited Hawaii several years ago (2015ish), I must say....I can relate to this brother's experience there. Never felt a negative race related vibe while I was there. Didn't feel like my skin color made me a "target" of any hateful vibes. Didn't hurt at all that while there, most of the music I heard on radio was Hawaiian Reggae (really love that music form), I thought the locals in genera were very laid back, accepting. However, I was only there for 2 weeks.
I appreciate you sharing! Big mahalo. Let's talk about this Hawaiian Reggae...had NO IDEA about it until I got here...now I can't get enough. Irie Love, Rebel Souljahz, The Green, Sons of Zion, Maoli...The list goes on and on...The music here really endeared me to Hawaii in a deeper way as well. I love music and Hawaii is very musical. Lots of musicians and amazing talent here. Sounds like you got hit by a good dose of Aloha on your visit. 😎
I’m glad you’re experiencing the genuine aloha that most locals have for each other. It’s not about the color of ur skin or ethnicity; it’s knowing that the sun rises n sets on all of us. We are of the human race🌸
Maaaan I resonated with this so deeply! I’m 41 and moved from LA as well as year ago, you speak everything I have been thinking. No head on swivel, the trauma of growing my up in south central etc, even in the beach cities, it has an impact, especially with the police on the mainland, it’s a shame racism and profiling still exists the way in does in California all throughout. I expected the same ole story as well but I kept optimism and having positive experiences which taught me things are different here, and showed me my life experiences don’t define the future, and for me it was heart satisfying and eye opening. . There is still a lot of work to do especially with the older generations, but I’m happy to see a lot more melanin in the demographic here, a lot more brown and frankly, less white, it makes me feel comfortable as a yellow skinned brother with big lips and hair, things I’m accustomed to even in my older age now, being made fun of on the mainland or being treated like I’m out of place in certain zip codes. I’ve caught “those” vibes too a few times just like you stated. It doesn’t feel good for sure when people act “uncomfortable” , not so much in Waikiki but in financial district for sure. We get transplants unfortunately who bring that mentality with them. It’s something most people won’t ever know or experience and I get that it’s hard to explain, it’s totally energetic and spiritual I feel. . I’ve been cut in line too just like that, those little microaggressions do happen for sure. I will let them know that’s not cool out here. Great video, really spoke a lot that I have been thinking about! Locals and native Hawaiians, I must say, I’ve NEVER experienced hearts so warm. Some say aloha spirit is dying here in Honolulu but I feel it’s still very real and will live it as long as I can. I feel lucky to be here for the time i have had and won’t ever forget or take for granted.
Moved here six years ago. Truth be told I’m largely left alone. Thats not to say I’ve not had any incidents. But coming from the Midwest, I’ll take Hawaii any day when it comes to how I’m treated.
Same here! I will take Hawaii any day...all day...twice on Sunday. I'm sure the Midwest has its own set of special challenges as a minority person, but here...it's just different and better.
You struck a chord when you said that some white people look at you as if you don’t belong. No, no, no-it's you who doesn't belong; it's them. The reality is that some people just aren't meant to thrive in every environment. The intense sun and the vibrant energy of Hawaii can be overwhelming, especially when it’s not your natural element. For you, Boston is where you truly belong, a place where the climate suits you perfectly, and you can be yourself without the harshness of the sun. Kings and queens of Afro-Asian and Black heritage, embrace your right to find where you thrive. Do your due diligence and research to understand and appreciate these dynamics. For those white people reading this, take a moment to reflect and educate yourselves. 👋🏾🌈HI TO ALL WHITE PEOPLE READING THE COMMENTS please remember the Kings AND QUEEN OF THE ISLAND WERE ALSO BLACK AND YALL ACT DONT BE COVERING UP HISTORY PLEASE GO TO BOSTON WHERE YOU BELONG YOU CAN HANDLE THAT SUN
Hello Dwayne your video is a great expression of the experience of Oahu and the rest of Hawai'i. I visited Oahu for the first time in September of 2023. I was so moved by what I saw, in the people there, and in the landscape-- I had to write down my feelings after my first day there, here is what I wrote: Otherworldly beauty. Beauty in the palm and banyan trees, in the landscape, in the people who live there and in the people visiting. A different world to my eye, and with it, fascination overload. Like a giddy child at heart. A heart swell for the ethno-fusion of Waikiki. So many smiles. So Visually fascinating. When you realize you chose well, this is what you needed to see, this is where you wanted to be. The breeze and the waves, the hues of blue, the fiery sun, and a respite under canopy of trees. The deep variants in shades of green you see. The clouds in the distance blanketing and embracing the sharpened peaks. The State of Hawai'i, the heartthrob of the Central Pacific in her tropical sundress and lei of orchid flowers, and the hypnotic sweetness of her Central Pacific air. Her Ukulele strums humming in tune with a soulful voice, singing inspiring songs that calm, and soothe, and heal you to a warm and contented smile….abuzz in the moment.
bro, I visited Honolulu with my family early last month 4/8/24 to 4/15/24. We stayed in the Grand Islander in a penthouse suite in Hilton Hawaiian Village. We are Black American. You are right. The locals treated us with such great warmth and love. Some of the visitors were funny acting. But I loved everything about the wonderful vibe there. Not to mention the scenery is gorgeous. Thanks for the videos.
Aloha brah! 😎🤙🏾My pleasure, thank you for watching! You and your ohana did it right staying a week! And come onnnn Grand Islander Penthouse Suiteeeee! I see you! I'm so glad you had a chance to feel that aloha from the locals. That warmth and love is unmatched, brah! It beats out any funny acting visitors. And this scenery is breathtaking, isn't it? Sometimes I take photos on my phone and it looks like a screensaver! You said it...gorgeous! 💯
Dwayne, I just discovered your channel from your Waikiki to Crumble Highline video and saw this link. I love that I took the time to watch this with you. There are a lot of people who move here who don't always get it, but you get it man, you get it. I'm so glad you see the and have felt the good in this place. I was born and raised, mixed race, have natived blood and caucasian, and trying to explain to people that there is no catch to our kindness, when we say, 'Eh, crash on the couch, no worries! Get home safe tomorrow!' If we offer, we do so freely, not for anything in return. If we need or want something, we ask up front. No need to hide. And yes, if we have good conversation, you are welcomed in our home. For lunch, for the ball game, doesn't matter if i met you yesterday. We are trusting because we have that enthusiasm that give without expectations and we eventually it will return when we need it most. One of my many friends in high school was from a military family, moved here from North Carolina, couldn't wait to get back to the continent in his first month here. I have always went to schools with hugh military populations so new kids moving in and out was normal for me, but his family was the first black family that welcomed me and my family the same way we did with him and his family. What you said in this video really struck a chord with me because when me and Gary (my friend) talk even now, he says when traveling on the continent with the college sports team he was on (UH Football 99-03), he rralized he was doing what you said while he was out there, head on a swivel, always traveling in groups, just because of the skin he was born in. He moved here at age 15 in 1996, couldn't wait to leave the moment he got here. 28 years later he's still here and he can't imagine living anywhere else and doesn't want to raise his sons anywhere else if he doesn't have to. We have our problems like everywhere else, but our greatest asset in people is not in a majority of backgrounds, but in our diversity, which (to many on the continent) inexplicably unifies us not as a race, nor ethnicity nor cultural background, but as people existing together. I'm grateful that you have come to experience this for yourself, Dwayne. He mea nui maoli nō! It's truly a wonderful thing!
I’m not local, but I’ve been here 7 years and I just love it here. I love encountering black people in the grocery store ❤ also, I’ve experienced less housing discrimination here. I’ve been able to rent every apartment I’ve inquired about.
I’ve been living here for almost 20 years and is in love with everything here. I’ve had any major problems here other than temporary houselessness. I’m an artist and woodworker amongst other works. There’s always something to do here and the locals are just as chill as everyone else.
Aloha! I appreciate you for watching and sharing. 20 years?! Okay...I need to be asking you some questions. I too am in love with everything here. It feels like a dream to live here. I know houselessness here is a challenge for many and I'm glad it was temporary for you. If you have some work you can share, drop a link on here so we can check you out. Big mahalo! 😎🤙🏾
I know this was not an easy video for you to do and so different from your others but you have been living in Hawaii for over a year now and I know people want to know about your experience. I’m so happy it is a positive experience. Maybe sharing this will encourage potential visitors to embrace the Aloha spirit. You continue to be positive and spread Aloha 🌺.💕
Odd that your experience of a country is primarily down to your interaction with the Police. They are not a race. They are not robots. They are instructed to pick on you personally. So, when you do a future of a country/ state, could you talk about the cost of living, medical treatment, schools, housing, etc?
Such a great topic! Every time I’ve been to Hawaii (Oahu and Maui), it has been magical. I’ve haven’t experienced too many weird moments because I am black except maybe twice and it stemmed from other visitors that were not from Hawaii. My theory is “be respectful” and you get respect.
Local born and raised here. This is actually my 3rd video of yours I have watched today. And I must say....I'm absolutely GLAD you feel the way you feel. NO ONE, should deal with some of the stuff that goes on in the mainland!!! It's like those fools are on a different planet!!! I can tell off a few videos, you are a " VERY RESPECTFUL " person. And that is a MAJOR reason why Hawaii was taken to you. Listen up people NOT from Hawaii, thinking of visiting or even moving here. Remember these 2 CARDINAL RULES...... RESPECT THE LOCAL NATIVE PEOPLE, AND RESPECT THE " AINA " LAND!!!!!! You do those 2 things and the people will treat you as our own!!!! We can't stand, and it may go bad for you, if you come here, thinking YOU RUN THINGS like you think you do in Woodbury North Montana, population 600!!!! YOU DON'T!!!!! Hawaii is part of the USA, but NOT like the USA. Now Hawaii is not Idiot free. Every place has a few. But Hawaii DEFINITELY has any other US State beat, as far as welcoming and accepting. Sorry for my lil rant. But again, awesome video Dwayne. Keep up the great and informative content. Mahalo'z and much Aloha 🤙🏼
Wonderful to confire that Hawaii and its various cultures are inclusive and accepting of others. I decided to stay in Hawaii upon leaving the military. Best decision I ever made. Love the ALOHA spirit of the islands. Welcome to your new home.
Fantastic video🤙🏾 Hawaii has always been therapy for me because of the Aloha spirit. It rejuvenates me. Thank you for sharing your experiences as a black man in living in Hawaii and this so appropriate for Black History month. You are very blessed😇
Great video, the interaction on the island with police is always positive. I believe it’s based on they knowing a lot of brothers on the island served in the military or in tech. So folks are often treated with respect. Once in a while you might run into some rude person but they are often folks coming from overseas. The locals always treat folks with respect. You are absolutely correct. Try being a young black guy in Waikiki they always asking what I do for a living, or having a bizarre look like why are you in Hawaii.😂
I can relate. Lived/worked Waikiki from 18- 32 years old back in late 80s, 90s, 02. I worked Hilton Hawn Vill and ended up living with family of kanaka portigee cops, local Japanese family, local haoles, Chinese ohana too….all good fun.
Your channel is so inspiring. I'm a black single mom here and we almost contemplated moving back to the mainland. Lately I'm having a change of heart to just keep pushing through. I'm experiencing isolation but now I'm seeing more black and hawaiian community groups here. We are slowly getting more use to life here. Thanks for sharing your story.
I'm from the Bay Area, and my family and I visited Hawaii for the first time last October, and we loved it. Honestly, we've been thinking about moving out there sometime in the future.
New follower subscribed! I love your tone of voice and how positive you are explaining Hawaii and situations there!! Going to go dive into your other videos now and check them out!! Hope more is to come in the future :)
Good video. BTW, since you come across as a chill kind of guy, I think that helps in how your are treated in Hawaii. Makes sense that it's a little different in Waikiki. I agree with you that the cops in Hawaii are not like their mainland counterparts. Unfortunately, even the cops in Hawaii get a bad rap, as evidenced by the media and online response to the killing of Lindani Myeni back in 2021. They just jumped to the conclusion that it was a black man so he was killed unjustly. And that's despite the videos showing they acted properly. Mahalo for this video.
Mahalo for watching and commenting! I do believe what you put out comes back to you. My experience here has been really rich and full and beautiful. I just wanna be kind and listen and learn, you know? I remember the story about Lindani Myeni. It was very sad and alarming to me because I was planning the move here at that time and I was very concerned about being a Black man in Hawaii and how my interaction with cops would be. The whole situation still saddens me. I wish no one had to be hurt or lose their life. I appreciate your kind words. 🙏🏾
@@dwaynearoundtown There's a RUclips video from three months ago on the Moving Hawaii channel, that episode is called Black Hawaii. Not sure you saw it or not, but it gives a couple perspectives from a local black person point of view and the other from a mixed mainland and Hawaii point of view. It's typically a real estate channel, but this one was really interesting. You might want to check it out if you haven't seen it.
My experience as a Black person in Kauai, Hawaii, over the past four days has been eye-opening. I couldn’t help but notice how some white people gave me disapproving looks, as if I didn’t belong there. Their forced smiles and exaggerated niceties felt insincere, especially when they tried to educate me about Hawaiian history-a history they clearly had limited understanding of themselves. Ironically, many of the homeless individuals I encountered were white, sleeping in places like the Honolulu airport. This stark contrast highlighted an uncomfortable reality. Despite these challenges, I have found that connecting with the local Brown-skinned community in Hawaii has been incredibly rewarding. They have shown genuine warmth and acceptance, proving that true belonging comes from authentic connections, not superficial judgments. #HawaiiNotUSA
Thank you for sharing your personal story. It definitely helps with me coming down there solo. And the people that cut in front of you. You're too nice. I would have said, "Hold up." Wait a minute.You better get in the back, will you belong.
From NYC born and raised but been living in Hawaii for the last 2.5 years and I’m definitely never moving back to the mainland, Honolulu is home and like you said it’s much safer here and just full of good vibes unlike the mainland.
I just happened to stumble on this site a couple of days ago on RUclips and I really love his vibe and the sound of his voice, it’s like butter. Needless to say I subscribed right away. I like his take and perspective on food places on Oahu and I really appreciated this episode on living in Hawai’i if you are black. Born and raised here, I can say we don’t differentiate being black with any other ethnic group in Hawaii. I look forward to watching more episodes that he puts out and trying some of the places he mentions.
Aloha bruddah (smile), nice video and I definitely appreciate your perspective/information. As a constant visitor and someone who's looking seriously at the move, I appreciate your views. I love the spirit of Aloha and how people treat me as ohana. It's definitely a much different vibe from the mainland and it feels like home. Now, where do you get good pizza from on island lol.
Aloha ohanaaaa! E komo mai! I'm so happy you stopped in to hang out with me. I was just around your way last weekend. North Shore is all good vibes. Mahalo for subscribing! 😎🤙🏾
I ran into a few racist ignorant ppl there but it was ppl who aren't natives on the land! All the locals were a JOY Dwayne. It was definitely in WAKIKI where I felt the racism from ppl who who were NOT LOCALS! But overall, DEF SAFE FOR US! I was walking around the rough parts like I was a local LMAO
"I was walking around the rough parts like I was a local" 😂😂I love it! I really do love Waikiki. Many locals don't bother going because of the tourists but I love the "big city energy" on an island. Makes me so happy! I'm sorry you had to encounter that ugliness. I'm glad you know that it's not the locals. You have to just brush off the rudeness and show that aloha. And people be trying my aloha sometimes. lol
Sorry brother... Even when I was stationed here back in 2003-2007 after Japan and more.... Beyond racist and I will not elaborate more except for my better half being mean to 5 year old.... You N word to him and very bad words said to her .... All three of us before I started dating her etc.... Two veterans and one active don't play this Hawaii smoke and mirrors crap. I didn't serve this country for the ignorant. The elders are the only trustworthy.
I had NO idea of this until I moved here. I had a coworker who has a family that has so many ethnic backgrounds represented...it's like the United Nations. Hawai'i is the most ethnically and racially diverse state in the country. And I love that! I love to see it and I love to be a part of it. Mahalo for sharing. 😎🤙🏾
I am a black man born and raised in Oakland and I am here now. I am planning to move to Kauai as I have never felt "at home" anywhere else after 20 or more visits. It's not and has never been the police I fear here in Oakland, its black and brown people which is d a m n sad. Constant head on a swivel and we cannot enjoy the beauty and any peace in Oakland including its nature without being bip'd, robbed, or ran off the road. For whatever reason, most of us are extremely angry and carry zero compassion for others. Sad.
My wife and I are looking forward to moving to Hawaii in 5 to 10 years. We’re from Germany, and I also have US citizenship with Afro roots. We are trying to gather as much information as possible because the idea is so awesome, but the reality is probably much different
Awesome video! Thanks for sharing. Your perspective is really insightful to hear as a local. I love that you exude aloha and actively participate in the aloha spirit here. Like another commenter said, you get it! 🤙🏼
Dwayne first of all I must say when I heard you speak & saw your demeanor & attitude towards us locals I believed you, glad to know that you've had many nice experiences with us. We know that Hawaii is not perfect. But growing up here I have the best of worlds being part Haole, Hawaiian, & Asian. My Mom always told us you need to be respectful to your parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles. elders. All you tourist who come to Hawaii " Do not disrespect the indigenous Hawaiian people & our cultural practices.' Or hurt or connive or cheat our local people with that mainland type attitude. If you do, don't come here, stay home. Many of the comments say the same thing here. However, go & read about Hawaii & how our kingdom was overthrown by the American Govt. Read the book 'A Kingdom Stolen.' So if the locals or Hawaiians come across mad or upset, don't take it personally read about us then maybe you'll understand that from the 1800;s till now Hawaiians have rediscovered, empowering themselves from colonization. This was a sad part of history but that did not stop our Aloha for our family & friends. Anyway Dwayne Mahalo nui loa! for your insight Dwayne you know that many locals may call you Haole Popolo or Paele??? Aloha kakou!
As an African American who loves Hawaii, I know what you mean. I have not moved yet. But I love Maui and feel completely alive each time we visit. On my first visit in 2008 I got lost in an area. I forgot where I parked my car. I was passed by at least 5 locals and each one of them made me feel so human. The first guy that looked at me and said "Hozit" actually scared me a bit. I was like "Whats a "Howizt". LOL I have a problem though. I would not work. So I'm taking my mainland jobs to prepare me to work "wink wink" and live on island time.
Great video as always. Im from the bay area and twice a year l visit the islands Spam Jam , and the Aloha Festival just to get away from my area which can cause a lot of anxiety but your right Hawaii is the most chill place l know.Hopefully see you in April. 😊
Mr. Hamachi! Aloha, my friend! Mahalo for watching this one. I know it's a bit different from the others but Hawai'i is a special place and is very welcoming to me. I know you know how chill it is here. I'm so glad you remind me about Spam Jam. I had NO idea how big that was until it was over! See you in April! 😎🤙🏾
I've visited Hawaii different islands and I love it. The Hawaiian people were so welcoming to me I didn't expect that and they will always have a place in my heart
Brother I'm feeling you. I took a trip out there and failed in love. That was the best two weeks I've had in some time. The rent is high, so I'm trying to figure it out how I can just move there with no job and no real contract. My savings will be gone in three months.
My family and I will be moving to Honolulu in a few months coming from El Paso I was having a bit of anxiety because I heard some of the same culture here is there also and the locals here can be sooo rude and I’m from Philadelphia! But the southwest is definitely not for me thanks for sharing 🫶🏾
We are coming to Oahu in May. I'm black and my husband is Chinese and I wondered if ppl would stare at us crazy there hahaha We live in LA area, so no one seems to care here (meaning no one even looks at us twice unless giving a compliment). I'm guessing it will be the same there. Anyway, I can't wait to check out the black owned restaurant video!!
Hawaii has been so good to me the vibe and energy here is so positive I have met so many born and raised locals here that have shown me nothing but Aloha and Ohana! Sending love and positive vibes back to Maui!!!
I love Hawaii it’s a place I never want to leave, when I go there to visit Hawaii. The people the food the weather everything! This brother is right. I will be back soon.
Greetings Ohana…My family and I visited almost two years ago. My daughter and son in law renewed their vows at Byodo In Temple……As soon as we got off the plane it was like we all exhaled….Embraced ,Included and Respected is what we felt the entirety of our visit. Good and Decent people are just that..Good and Decent…..Thank you Ohana for being just that!!!…
Aloha 'Ohana! Ohhhh my goodness...just reading your words fill me up. You are taking me back to when I got off the plane and exhaled just like you all did. Embraced. Included. Respected. I feel all of that! And what a beautiful place to renew vows. I know core memories were made that day! Good and Decent indeed. I appreciate you and thank YOU, 'Ohana, for being just that!!!
You are so right a lot of the rudeness on Hawaii usually comes from place where there’s a lot of tourists. And sometimes in Chinatown, I don’t know why but there’s a touch of that non-welcoming vibe there too. But the local folks genuine salt of the Earth people with that big Ohana heart. For them is all about respect and kindness, you give it you get it. I’ve lived here for total of 17 years. This is my home and heart🤙🏾
Mahalo, Dwayne. When we visited in summer 2023, our friend who lives and works in Waikiki declared she would never go back to the main land. She has been there for 20+ years now. I love Hawai’i and definitely embraced the chill vibe. I am happy that you are happy and in peace. Aloha🤙🏽💕🌼
😎❤🤙🏾Listen to me...I had no desire to live in Hawai'i. I was coming to VISIT! I got off the plane and in less than 24 hours I was trying to figure out a way to move here. The island pulled me IN! And just like your friend, I could stay here forever. 20+ years your friend has been here??? Wow! I'm glad you love Hawai'i too and were able to embrace the vibes. It's beautiful here. Mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) for your kind words. Aloha 🌴✨
I grew up in the islands and recently a friend of mine (94 years old, her husband was once the president of NAACP), made some comments how I was a “the perfect” minority - and feeling very uncomfortable, I listened to her explanation of her perceptions of “Asian-Americans” and I just had to accept her perceptions because they have been shaped by her life experiences. She seemed so puzzled when we spoke of what the culture in Hawaii is comprised of…but I sense that she can feel it through our friendship. I’m happy to watch this video and that you feel good in Hawai’i. Aloha!
Greetings! Thanks sooo much for sharing this! I am considering moving to downtown Honolulu in the future. I figured being in a place with such diversity of nonwhites would be easier going and a more pleasant experience for someone like me. I've lived in places that are predominantly white most of my life. Also, being mixed, living in a black community didn't work either. I wondered how I would be received by the locals and new locals there. I've only really seen the experiences of white Americans living in Hawaii. Do you think if you were a dark brown complexion, you would have the same experience? I only ask because I have relatives who are darker and wonder what it would be like for them to visit me once I move there. Thanks again! Blessings to you! Aloha!
I've lived here for 22 years now. For southern people moving here, the transition is smooth because aloha spirit is literally the same as southern hospitality. People come here from all over the world and some cultures don't do the wait in line thing and some do stare but its more out of curiosity because some of their home countries don't have black people. Sometimes you are the first black person that they have seen in their entire lives.
I'm so glad you said this! I was telling my Mom this exact thing! The aloha spirit and southern hospitality are very closely aligned. I'm from Atlanta and I got that southern hospitality baked in. Now...LA tried to beat it out of me, but it's still in there. lol I mean...waving at strangers, being kind and considerate to others, asking people about their family and how they are doing, and waiting for an answer, showing love and care for people. The transition to Hawaii was very reminiscent of me going home to see my family in the South. I hear you on Hawai'i being an international place and people will stare out of curiosity. You're right...sometimes, we are the first black person someone has ever seen.
As a kanaka born and raised in Hawai’i, even I don’t like to traverse Chinatown 😅 But it’s true (especially in Waikiki) where entitlement and disrespect is evident. My hubby is born and raised in Wai’anae, he gets racially profiled all the time because of the color of his skin and he’s your typical local braddah. Yet, he is hardworking (in law enforcement).
Great video. but title is a little misleading. When we say local its referring to guys who were born here not because you live here. Spot on observations, the only guys who move here who have trouble usually start it from what I've seen. You really seem like a cool bradda that everyone would get along with. Best of luck with the vlogs.
Thank you for this video. This is your new subscriber from Los Angeles but watching this video on the big island. I myself understand where you are coming from because I don’t feel like I have to put the radar up when I’m on the big island me on the mainland from Los Angeles, where being black you have to always feel like you’re going to get pulled over by the police or get treated with terrible customer service at a restaurant or clothing store or the mall or whatever. And the one thing that I love about the big island is, we don’t have any Pookie and Ray Ray’s on the big island. The only Black that I meet over here are regular native black Americans like yourself. That’s why I love the big island not saying it don’t have problems over here but is definitely not like on the mainland. Well, I’m talking to my phone I hope this makes sense but thank you for this video. I totally understand where you are coming from Mahalo 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏿🤙🏿🤙🏿🤙🏿
I believe that here in Hawaii, you get what you give. I see a lot of foolishness of people acting entitled and talking loud and being just obnoxious and if you act that way here, locals will call you out. Just be respectful of the culture and be at peace. However, we do have our share of numbnuts flying around, so best just chillax and do your thing.
You have amazing energy!! I’m so excited to visit now. You eased my anxiety. Everything that you said about the waves 🌊 and the beaches washing away the depression and negative vibes sold me. I’m an empath so I have to feel safe energetically. ❤& 💡 to you 😇
We’re on Oahu a ton and planning to possibly retire there in a few years- my mom was born there and my bff and his boyfriend have lived right on Waikiki for awhile now- we’re about to be there for a month this summer so we’re binge watching your videos for info and now we feel like you’re a friend lol 😂 love your channel 😊🤗☺️
Screaming this from a mountain top, Hawaiians' have a darken tone of skin as well, the time is done for splitting hairs. Nobody noticed, Nobody cares, it's all in ones' own mind and ideology. One is seeking to be treated differently, If you are constantly trying to sense it.
Great video. It makes me think it must be like as an older white gay couple, we only really feel safe in The Castro in SF and Palm Springs. Everywhere else, we never touch and our heads are in swivel mode. Just got home from a week on Waikiki Beach and saw just one brave couple holding hands.
Mahalo Dwayne for the positive comments! It's the Aloha spirit that is a real thing. I moved to CA, and miss my Hawai'i every day. Trying to spread aloha in CA. Just keep the good attitude and respect the land and people and culture. Keep enjoying all there is to love about the islands...from another auntie!
thank you for sharing your story. I love Hawaii and it may be a good retirement place for me. I do have a sister in Hilo and when I visit it's hard to leave.
I agree that people cn be so rude/oblivious (talking about your restaurant experience). Its like they are the only ppl that exist. You have a good vibe and I'm glad you are having a good experience. I wouldn't expect anything other than that to be honest :)
Another great video Dwayne....you're right, you get what you put out towards others...i always tell my friends it's such a different positive vibe in Hawaii versus the Bay Area...everyone chilling...but you are going to get those few entitled jerks on vacation thinking its all about me, those are the ones that give the rest of the visitors a bad rep...so happy that you took the leap to move to Hawaii and enjoying life...and to all your followers, how Dwayne represents himself in the videos is how he is... I had the pleasure to spot him at the IMP, and we talked , he's more lovely in person....can't wait to see more of your videos...
Touch down in Oahu in 96 and ain't look back... I married a local and started a family... the most PEACEFUL place ever and perfect for retirement also if you can afford it...
You know what? I love hearing this. I've met so many other brothers and sisters who have moved here and never left! It's always so encouraging to hear. The peace here is euphoric. I feel more creative, more connected, less stressed (not to say that life is perfect...cuz it ain't), but the quality of life is so rich here.
Yeh, i feel for you about your restraunt experience, D. Having worked in food service, if i were the host, would've told that couple..."Hold up! This guy was here b4 you, so just wait your turn, alright?!" Usually, the most likely "offenders" are visitors (sorry to lump those eggs in the same basket) or just recently moved here. That kinda "Me first" ass-itude has no business in this Land of Aloha but there are those types of people Everywhere! It's just a Sad state of affairs....Matt. 7:12...Aloha, my paele braddah...Keep the videos coming
I appreciate you! Knowing that you would've intervened feel nice...even much later after the situation. That "me first" ass-itude, as you cleverly stated, has no business in this Land of Aloha...but people are people everywhere! This "Me first" attitude is something that I see a lot with guests. People pay their money to come and feel they are entitled to do what they want. Even walking on the sidewalk in Waikiki ...there are times I have to step into the street because visitors walking toward me with their family and friends take up the entire sidewalk, instead of sharing. People are people everywhere.
See?? You trying to get it turned up! 😂😂You remind me of one of my cousins!. lol Sometimes I'm just caught off guard by people's behavior and lack of consideration of others. I know you see me... It doesn't happen often but when it does...it's really frustrating. See you in July!!! What are you most excited about?
Big mahalo to you for watching and sharing your comments. This was a very vulnerable episode to post, but I wanted to share my perspective and appreciate you being open to listening. Aloha🤙🏾
I’m so glad I found you! Thank you for this!!!🤙🏾🌈♥️
You convinced me to move from FloRIDa to Hawii to work under my CDL. Thank you HaPpy Face😘
I am a black woman and I went to Hawaii recently. I was pulled over by the cops and put my hand out the window to show I didn’t have any weapons. When he came to my car he said “mam we don’t do that around here” 😂 my kids were in the car with me and we all laughed so hard!!! ℹ immediately I was like ok we’re moving here ❤
Okay...I. JUST. HOLLERED!!! 😂😂😂The way you have me laughing right now. Hahaha! You put your hands out the window! It's trueeeee...they don't do that here. But it's horrible that we have that reflex right? I about do the same. I keep my hands on the wheel...everything is "yes, sir...no ma'am" It's gone left on me one time too many and it scars you forever. I was talking to a group of black people a month ago, and we all agreed to be seen like everyone else is amazing! No place is without its challenges, but it's so nice to not feel targeted.
I was pulled over in Aiea one night and I told him ‘I have to get my registration out of the glove box’ and the police officer said ‘obviously, hurry up’ 😅
Just so you know Honolulu has a wonderful NAACP Branch. Very friendly and social. I hope you enjoy living in Hawaii. I used to teach at Castel HS in the 90's. Aloha!
😂❤
I just returned from a four island visit and it was absolutely heaven. I experienced an episode or too from people who were not Hawaiian - Kanaka Maoli/Kananka Oiwi/Lahui . Also in Waikiki. They were Haole. These rude people brought their issues with them to this beautiful place. I kept the aloha spirit and didn't let their ignorance both me though.
Nice video braddah keep it up ❤
Can you do a video on places to live in Hawaii.
Thank you for this video❤
Of course! It's my pleasure. I appreciate you for caring enough to watch and comment. 😎🤙🏾
Theres no black neighborhoods here, that includes no bad/poor/dangerous black neighborhoods. Realistically people will assume you have a good job here and are a veteran or active duty if you are black here and not homeless looking. The bad neighborhoods are the microneasians living in section 8 housing. They dont have black people in section 8 here. Its extremely expensive here so if you came from the mainland and are black they figure you have a decent job.
You are right about that. People will assume you are military or have a good government job...I am not military nor government so people's eyes really light up when I say I am not. They are like whaaaaa??? lol
GREAT JOB I AM THE ONLY BLACK RADIO PROGRAMMER IN HAWAII I PLAY SMOOTH JAMZ ON JAZZY 107.5 FM 10 PM -6 AM 7 DAYS A WEEK OLDSCHOOL R&B
I am so inspired by you. I visited Hawaii last May and have been obsessed ever since. You're right, Hawaii has a vibe of mental/physical wellness as opposed to the toxicity of the mainland. I would love to see a video about your journey of leaving California and securing a job and housing in Hawaii? Do you have any tips for people who are serious about moving to Hawaii but don't know where to start? 😅
Big mahalo to you! I appreciate you watching! What island did you visit? I wasn't here for 24 hours and I knew this was a special place and would be home for me. Hawai'i is magical...and that's the only way I know how to describe it. There is so much healing this island gives. Ooooh...you know what? I might have to consider doing that episode. The one tip I would have is to try and have a job before you get here, it will make things much easier! Also...try and get a remote job so you can work outside because it's gorgeous. It's honestly very hard to work here because it's so beautiful. The bills keep coming so you figure it out lol ...but it's hard to work here b/c it's so pretty it's distracting. You just want to look all day. lol
@@dwaynearoundtownLast May I spent a week in Oahu and one day on the Road to Hana in Maui…that was the most peaceful week of my life. And the food was everything! Thank you for the tip! I spent this morning applying jobs in my field. In the meantime, I’m watching your videos to plan a April-ish trip to get my Aloha fix. I can’t wait for your next posts…there’s so much to learn! 🥰🌴 🌺
Local here and I thank you for this. We have a long way to go, but we are trying - together with all of our chop suey races - to live with LOVE❤ Messages such like yours helps spread the LOVE❤❤
Born and raised kanaka maoli, regardless of where you're from or your ethnic background, just remember, you're a resident, not a kama'aina or a hawaiian. That's the one thing us locals, born and raised and native hawaiians, cannot stand, people who move here thinking they're real locals.
Btw HPD veteran here, we treat you the way you act. ADR Approach Determines Response
Yes I love Hawaii, lived in Honolulu for a few years and the police said hello and were friendly, it freaked me out at first bc used to being racially profiled in the US "mainland" but then I realized its just Aloha. And yes there were also some folks, mainly older Asian folks who were discriminating and acting like I had the plague when I sat on da bus, getting up when I sat down or crowded bus and none of them sitting with me, like back in the Jim Crow days in the US, but its just ignorance and anti blackness. I made friends with many of the locals and kama aina who were real cool and understood what a lot of us Black folks deal with bc its the same colonizer and its their land! Aloha.
Thank you for sharing!! I love Hawa'ii because of this reason! People of African ancestry have been noted to have lived on the island as early as the 16th century. You are home!!
As a Black American who visited Hawaii several years ago (2015ish), I must say....I can relate to this brother's experience there. Never felt a negative race related vibe while I was there. Didn't feel like my skin color made me a "target" of any hateful vibes. Didn't hurt at all that while there, most of the music I heard on radio was Hawaiian Reggae (really love that music form), I thought the locals in genera were very laid back, accepting. However, I was only there for 2 weeks.
I appreciate you sharing! Big mahalo. Let's talk about this Hawaiian Reggae...had NO IDEA about it until I got here...now I can't get enough. Irie Love, Rebel Souljahz, The Green, Sons of Zion, Maoli...The list goes on and on...The music here really endeared me to Hawaii in a deeper way as well. I love music and Hawaii is very musical. Lots of musicians and amazing talent here. Sounds like you got hit by a good dose of Aloha on your visit. 😎
If you can, checkout Gabriel Iglesias--Aloha Fluffy... Hilarious but True!
I’m glad you’re experiencing the genuine aloha that most locals have for each other. It’s not about the color of ur skin or ethnicity; it’s knowing that the sun rises n sets on all of us. We are of the human race🌸
Maaaan I resonated with this so deeply! I’m 41 and moved from LA as well as year ago, you speak everything I have been thinking. No head on swivel, the trauma of growing my up in south central etc, even in the beach cities, it has an impact, especially with the police on the mainland, it’s a shame racism and profiling still exists the way in does in California all throughout. I expected the same ole story as well but I kept optimism and having positive experiences which taught me things are different here, and showed me my life experiences don’t define the future, and for me it was heart satisfying and eye opening. . There is still a lot of work to do especially with the older generations, but I’m happy to see a lot more melanin in the demographic here, a lot more brown and frankly, less white, it makes me feel comfortable as a yellow skinned brother with big lips and hair, things I’m accustomed to even in my older age now, being made fun of on the mainland or being treated like I’m out of place in certain zip codes. I’ve caught “those” vibes too a few times just like you stated. It doesn’t feel good for sure when people act “uncomfortable” , not so much in Waikiki but in financial district for sure. We get transplants unfortunately who bring that mentality with them. It’s something most people won’t ever know or experience and I get that it’s hard to explain, it’s totally energetic and spiritual I feel. . I’ve been cut in line too just like that, those little microaggressions do happen for sure. I will let them know that’s not cool out here. Great video, really spoke a lot that I have been thinking about! Locals and native Hawaiians, I must say, I’ve NEVER experienced hearts so warm. Some say aloha spirit is dying here in Honolulu but I feel it’s still very real and will live it as long as I can. I feel lucky to be here for the time i have had and won’t ever forget or take for granted.
Moved here six years ago. Truth be told I’m largely left alone. Thats not to say I’ve not had any incidents. But coming from the Midwest, I’ll take Hawaii any day when it comes to how I’m treated.
Same here! I will take Hawaii any day...all day...twice on Sunday. I'm sure the Midwest has its own set of special challenges as a minority person, but here...it's just different and better.
You struck a chord when you said that some white people look at you as if you don’t belong. No, no, no-it's you who doesn't belong; it's them. The reality is that some people just aren't meant to thrive in every environment. The intense sun and the vibrant energy of Hawaii can be overwhelming, especially when it’s not your natural element. For you, Boston is where you truly belong, a place where the climate suits you perfectly, and you can be yourself without the harshness of the sun.
Kings and queens of Afro-Asian and Black heritage, embrace your right to find where you thrive. Do your due diligence and research to understand and appreciate these dynamics. For those white people reading this, take a moment to reflect and educate yourselves.
👋🏾🌈HI TO ALL WHITE PEOPLE READING THE COMMENTS please remember the Kings AND QUEEN OF THE ISLAND WERE ALSO BLACK AND YALL ACT DONT BE COVERING UP HISTORY PLEASE GO TO BOSTON WHERE YOU BELONG YOU CAN HANDLE THAT SUN
Hello Dwayne your video is a great expression of the experience of Oahu and the rest of Hawai'i. I visited Oahu for the first time in September of 2023. I was so moved by what I saw, in the people there, and in the landscape-- I had to write down my feelings after my first day there, here is what I wrote:
Otherworldly beauty. Beauty in the palm and banyan trees, in the landscape, in the people who live there and in the people visiting. A different world to my eye, and with it, fascination overload. Like a giddy child at heart. A heart swell for the ethno-fusion of Waikiki. So many smiles. So Visually fascinating.
When you realize you chose well, this is what you needed to see, this is where you wanted to be. The breeze and the waves, the hues of blue, the fiery sun, and a respite under canopy of trees. The deep variants in shades of green you see. The clouds in the distance blanketing and embracing the sharpened peaks.
The State of Hawai'i, the heartthrob of the Central Pacific in her tropical sundress and lei of orchid flowers, and the hypnotic sweetness of her Central Pacific air. Her Ukulele strums humming in tune with a soulful voice, singing inspiring songs that calm, and soothe, and heal you to a warm and contented smile….abuzz in the moment.
bro, I visited Honolulu with my family early last month 4/8/24 to 4/15/24. We stayed in the Grand Islander in a penthouse suite in Hilton Hawaiian Village. We are Black American. You are right. The locals treated us with such great warmth and love. Some of the visitors were funny acting. But I loved everything about the wonderful vibe there. Not to mention the scenery is gorgeous. Thanks for the videos.
Aloha brah! 😎🤙🏾My pleasure, thank you for watching! You and your ohana did it right staying a week! And come onnnn Grand Islander Penthouse Suiteeeee! I see you! I'm so glad you had a chance to feel that aloha from the locals. That warmth and love is unmatched, brah! It beats out any funny acting visitors. And this scenery is breathtaking, isn't it? Sometimes I take photos on my phone and it looks like a screensaver! You said it...gorgeous! 💯
Dwayne, I just discovered your channel from your Waikiki to Crumble Highline video and saw this link. I love that I took the time to watch this with you. There are a lot of people who move here who don't always get it, but you get it man, you get it. I'm so glad you see the and have felt the good in this place. I was born and raised, mixed race, have natived blood and caucasian, and trying to explain to people that there is no catch to our kindness, when we say, 'Eh, crash on the couch, no worries! Get home safe tomorrow!' If we offer, we do so freely, not for anything in return. If we need or want something, we ask up front. No need to hide. And yes, if we have good conversation, you are welcomed in our home. For lunch, for the ball game, doesn't matter if i met you yesterday. We are trusting because we have that enthusiasm that give without expectations and we eventually it will return when we need it most.
One of my many friends in high school was from a military family, moved here from North Carolina, couldn't wait to get back to the continent in his first month here. I have always went to schools with hugh military populations so new kids moving in and out was normal for me, but his family was the first black family that welcomed me and my family the same way we did with him and his family. What you said in this video really struck a chord with me because when me and Gary (my friend) talk even now, he says when traveling on the continent with the college sports team he was on (UH Football 99-03), he rralized he was doing what you said while he was out there, head on a swivel, always traveling in groups, just because of the skin he was born in. He moved here at age 15 in 1996, couldn't wait to leave the moment he got here. 28 years later he's still here and he can't imagine living anywhere else and doesn't want to raise his sons anywhere else if he doesn't have to.
We have our problems like everywhere else, but our greatest asset in people is not in a majority of backgrounds, but in our diversity, which (to many on the continent) inexplicably unifies us not as a race, nor ethnicity nor cultural background, but as people existing together. I'm grateful that you have come to experience this for yourself, Dwayne. He mea nui maoli nō! It's truly a wonderful thing!
It’s awesome to see you share your experience in Hawaii. Glad you’re loving it! Keep up the awesome work!🤙🏽
I’m not local, but I’ve been here 7 years and I just love it here. I love encountering black people in the grocery store ❤ also, I’ve experienced less housing discrimination here. I’ve been able to rent every apartment I’ve inquired about.
I’ve been living here for almost 20 years and is in love with everything here. I’ve had any major problems here other than temporary houselessness. I’m an artist and woodworker amongst other works. There’s always something to do here and the locals are just as chill as everyone else.
Many blessings to you brother
Aloha! I appreciate you for watching and sharing. 20 years?! Okay...I need to be asking you some questions. I too am in love with everything here. It feels like a dream to live here. I know houselessness here is a challenge for many and I'm glad it was temporary for you. If you have some work you can share, drop a link on here so we can check you out. Big mahalo! 😎🤙🏾
I know this was not an easy video for you to do and so different from your others but you have been living in Hawaii for over a year now and I know people want to know about your experience. I’m so happy it is a positive experience. Maybe sharing this will encourage potential visitors to embrace the Aloha spirit. You continue to be positive and spread Aloha 🌺.💕
Odd that your experience of a country is primarily down to your interaction with the Police. They are not a race. They are not robots. They are instructed to pick on you personally. So, when you do a future of a country/ state, could you talk about the cost of living, medical treatment, schools, housing, etc?
Such a great topic! Every time I’ve been to Hawaii (Oahu and Maui), it has been magical. I’ve haven’t experienced too many weird moments because I am black except maybe twice and it stemmed from other visitors that were not from Hawaii. My theory is “be respectful” and you get respect.
My son is moving there in less than a month. I cannot wait to visit, all the time. ❤
Local born and raised here.
This is actually my 3rd video of yours I have watched today. And I must say....I'm absolutely GLAD you feel the way you feel. NO ONE, should deal with some of the stuff that goes on in the mainland!!! It's like those fools are on a different planet!!!
I can tell off a few videos, you are a " VERY RESPECTFUL " person. And that is a MAJOR reason why Hawaii was taken to you.
Listen up people NOT from Hawaii, thinking of visiting or even moving here. Remember these 2 CARDINAL RULES......
RESPECT THE LOCAL NATIVE PEOPLE, AND RESPECT THE " AINA " LAND!!!!!! You do those 2 things and the people will treat you as our own!!!!
We can't stand, and it may go bad for you, if you come here, thinking YOU RUN THINGS like you think you do in Woodbury North Montana, population 600!!!! YOU DON'T!!!!!
Hawaii is part of the USA, but NOT like the USA.
Now Hawaii is not Idiot free. Every place has a few. But Hawaii DEFINITELY has any other US State beat, as far as welcoming and accepting.
Sorry for my lil rant. But again, awesome video Dwayne. Keep up the great and informative content.
Mahalo'z and much Aloha 🤙🏼
Wonderful to confire that Hawaii and its various cultures are inclusive and accepting of others. I decided to stay in Hawaii upon leaving the military. Best decision I ever made. Love the ALOHA spirit of the islands. Welcome to your new home.
Fantastic video🤙🏾 Hawaii has always been therapy for me because of the Aloha spirit. It rejuvenates me. Thank you for sharing your experiences as a black man in living in Hawaii and this so appropriate for Black History month. You are very blessed😇
Great video, the interaction on the island with police is always positive. I believe it’s based on they knowing a lot of brothers on the island served in the military or in tech. So folks are often treated with respect. Once in a while you might run into some rude person but they are often folks coming from overseas. The locals always treat folks with respect. You are absolutely correct. Try being a young black guy in Waikiki they always asking what I do for a living, or having a bizarre look like why are you in Hawaii.😂
I can relate. Lived/worked Waikiki from 18- 32 years old back in late 80s, 90s, 02. I worked Hilton Hawn Vill and ended up living with family of kanaka portigee cops, local Japanese family, local haoles, Chinese ohana too….all good fun.
I live in kauai hawaii and don't let the avatar fool you. The peace is wonderful. Cops are better, normal.
Your channel is so inspiring. I'm a black single mom here and we almost contemplated moving back to the mainland. Lately I'm having a change of heart to just keep pushing through. I'm experiencing isolation but now I'm seeing more black and hawaiian community groups here. We are slowly getting more use to life here. Thanks for sharing your story.
I'm from the Bay Area, and my family and I visited Hawaii for the first time last October, and we loved it. Honestly, we've been thinking about moving out there sometime in the future.
Popolo don't use black!!
New follower subscribed! I love your tone of voice and how positive you are explaining Hawaii and situations there!! Going to go dive into your other videos now and check them out!! Hope more is to come in the future :)
Great video!! Awesome topic though. As a local Im glad I stumbled on to one of your videos. :)
Good video. BTW, since you come across as a chill kind of guy, I think that helps in how your are treated in Hawaii. Makes sense that it's a little different in Waikiki.
I agree with you that the cops in Hawaii are not like their mainland counterparts. Unfortunately, even the cops in Hawaii get a bad rap, as evidenced by the media and online response to the killing of Lindani Myeni back in 2021. They just jumped to the conclusion that it was a black man so he was killed unjustly. And that's despite the videos showing they acted properly. Mahalo for this video.
Mahalo for watching and commenting! I do believe what you put out comes back to you. My experience here has been really rich and full and beautiful. I just wanna be kind and listen and learn, you know?
I remember the story about Lindani Myeni. It was very sad and alarming to me because I was planning the move here at that time and I was very concerned about being a Black man in Hawaii and how my interaction with cops would be. The whole situation still saddens me. I wish no one had to be hurt or lose their life. I appreciate your kind words. 🙏🏾
@@dwaynearoundtown There's a RUclips video from three months ago on the Moving Hawaii channel, that episode is called Black Hawaii. Not sure you saw it or not, but it gives a couple perspectives from a local black person point of view and the other from a mixed mainland and Hawaii point of view. It's typically a real estate channel, but this one was really interesting. You might want to check it out if you haven't seen it.
My experience as a Black person in Kauai, Hawaii, over the past four days has been eye-opening. I couldn’t help but notice how some white people gave me disapproving looks, as if I didn’t belong there. Their forced smiles and exaggerated niceties felt insincere, especially when they tried to educate me about Hawaiian history-a history they clearly had limited understanding of themselves.
Ironically, many of the homeless individuals I encountered were white, sleeping in places like the Honolulu airport. This stark contrast highlighted an uncomfortable reality. Despite these challenges, I have found that connecting with the local Brown-skinned community in Hawaii has been incredibly rewarding. They have shown genuine warmth and acceptance, proving that true belonging comes from authentic connections, not superficial judgments.
#HawaiiNotUSA
Thank you for sharing your personal story. It definitely helps with me coming down there solo. And the people that cut in front of you. You're too nice. I would have said, "Hold up." Wait a minute.You better get in the back, will you belong.
From NYC born and raised but been living in Hawaii for the last 2.5 years and I’m definitely never moving back to the mainland, Honolulu is home and like you said it’s much safer here and just full of good vibes unlike the mainland.
I just happened to stumble on this site a couple of days ago on RUclips and I really love his vibe and the sound of his voice, it’s like butter. Needless to say I subscribed right away. I like his take and perspective on food places on Oahu and I really appreciated this episode on living in Hawai’i if you are black. Born and raised here, I can say we don’t differentiate being black with any other ethnic group in Hawaii. I look forward to watching more episodes that he puts out and trying some of the places he mentions.
Aloha bruddah (smile), nice video and I definitely appreciate your perspective/information. As a constant visitor and someone who's looking seriously at the move, I appreciate your views. I love the spirit of Aloha and how people treat me as ohana. It's definitely a much different vibe from the mainland and it feels like home.
Now, where do you get good pizza from on island lol.
Aloha from da North Shore, O’ahu! Great video! Subscribed!
Aloha ohanaaaa! E komo mai! I'm so happy you stopped in to hang out with me. I was just around your way last weekend. North Shore is all good vibes. Mahalo for subscribing! 😎🤙🏾
I ran into a few racist ignorant ppl there but it was ppl who aren't natives on the land! All the locals were a JOY Dwayne. It was definitely in WAKIKI where I felt the racism from ppl who who were NOT LOCALS! But overall, DEF SAFE FOR US! I was walking around the rough parts like I was a local LMAO
"I was walking around the rough parts like I was a local" 😂😂I love it! I really do love Waikiki. Many locals don't bother going because of the tourists but I love the "big city energy" on an island. Makes me so happy! I'm sorry you had to encounter that ugliness. I'm glad you know that it's not the locals. You have to just brush off the rudeness and show that aloha. And people be trying my aloha sometimes. lol
Well, you are about to convince me about Hawaii.So glad to hear your experiences there.Its a blessing to be happy where you live. Love you Grandmama❤
You can come here anytime you wish! My experience here has been incredible and I am happy and healthy and whole here. Love youuuuuuuuu! 😘😘😘❤❤❤
Thank you so much for this video. I plan to move here within a few months. Did you locate to Honolulu?
Sorry brother... Even when I was stationed here back in 2003-2007 after Japan and more.... Beyond racist and I will not elaborate more except for my better half being mean to 5 year old.... You N word to him and very bad words said to her .... All three of us before I started dating her etc.... Two veterans and one active don't play this Hawaii smoke and mirrors crap. I didn't serve this country for the ignorant. The elders are the only trustworthy.
We have the biggest melting pot on a da whole country even though geographically, we are in Polynesia big up to all races, all humans all earthlings
I had NO idea of this until I moved here. I had a coworker who has a family that has so many ethnic backgrounds represented...it's like the United Nations. Hawai'i is the most ethnically and racially diverse state in the country. And I love that! I love to see it and I love to be a part of it. Mahalo for sharing. 😎🤙🏾
WE HAVE A LOT OF BLACK PEOPLE HERE IN HAWAII IT'S NORMAL HAVING BLACKS ANY PART OF OAHU
Excellent video bro! New subscriber
Is very expensive can't afford to buy a house and taxes are very high for a little house. I don't know my son is form Hawaii he used to there.
you are cute, very handsome and attractive. Thank you for your video. God Bless!!
I am a black man born and raised in Oakland and I am here now. I am planning to move to Kauai as I have never felt "at home" anywhere else after 20 or more visits.
It's not and has never been the police I fear here in Oakland, its black and brown people which is d a m n sad. Constant head on a swivel and we cannot enjoy the beauty and any peace in Oakland including its nature without being bip'd, robbed, or ran off the road. For whatever reason, most of us are extremely angry and carry zero compassion for others. Sad.
My wife and I are looking forward to moving to Hawaii in 5 to 10 years. We’re from Germany, and I also have US citizenship with Afro roots.
We are trying to gather as much information as possible because the idea is so awesome, but the reality is probably much different
Awesome video! Thanks for sharing. Your perspective is really insightful to hear as a local.
I love that you exude aloha and actively participate in the aloha spirit here. Like another commenter said, you get it! 🤙🏼
Dwayne first of all I must say when I heard you speak & saw your demeanor & attitude towards us locals I believed you, glad to know that you've had many nice experiences with us. We know that Hawaii is not perfect. But growing up here I have the best of worlds being part Haole, Hawaiian, & Asian. My Mom always told us you need to be respectful to your parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles. elders. All you tourist who come to Hawaii " Do not disrespect the indigenous Hawaiian people & our cultural practices.' Or hurt or connive or cheat our local people with that mainland type attitude. If you do, don't come here, stay home. Many of the comments say the same thing here. However, go & read about Hawaii & how our kingdom was overthrown by the American Govt. Read the book 'A Kingdom Stolen.' So if the locals or Hawaiians come across mad or upset, don't take it personally read about us then maybe you'll understand that from the 1800;s till now Hawaiians have rediscovered, empowering themselves from colonization. This was a sad part of history but that did not stop our Aloha for our family & friends. Anyway Dwayne Mahalo nui loa! for your insight Dwayne you know that many locals may call you Haole Popolo or Paele??? Aloha kakou!
As an African American who loves Hawaii, I know what you mean. I have not moved yet. But I love Maui and feel completely alive each time we visit. On my first visit in 2008 I got lost in an area. I forgot where I parked my car. I was passed by at least 5 locals and each one of them made me feel so human. The first guy that looked at me and said "Hozit" actually scared me a bit. I was like "Whats a "Howizt". LOL
I have a problem though. I would not work. So I'm taking my mainland jobs to prepare me to work "wink wink" and live on island time.
theres no jobs on maui and the cost of everything skyrocketed and good luck getting a property there after the fire, the cost are through the roof.
Great video as always. Im from the bay area and twice a year l visit the islands Spam Jam , and the Aloha Festival just to get away from my area which can cause a lot of anxiety but your right Hawaii is the most chill place l know.Hopefully see you in April. 😊
Mr. Hamachi! Aloha, my friend! Mahalo for watching this one. I know it's a bit different from the others but Hawai'i is a special place and is very welcoming to me. I know you know how chill it is here. I'm so glad you remind me about Spam Jam. I had NO idea how big that was until it was over! See you in April! 😎🤙🏾
Awesome video. Thanks for sharing
I've visited Hawaii different islands and I love it. The Hawaiian people were so welcoming to me I didn't expect that and they will always have a place in my heart
Brother I'm feeling you. I took a trip out there and failed in love. That was the best two weeks I've had in some time. The rent is high, so I'm trying to figure it out how I can just move there with no job and no real contract. My savings will be gone in three months.
There’s a big difference between haole and F’n haole.
Manners make most of the difference.
😂😂This is soooo true!! lol Big difference!
My family and I will be moving to Honolulu in a few months coming from El Paso I was having a bit of anxiety because I heard some of the same culture here is there also and the locals here can be sooo rude and I’m from Philadelphia! But the southwest is definitely not for me thanks for sharing 🫶🏾
We are coming to Oahu in May. I'm black and my husband is Chinese and I wondered if ppl would stare at us crazy there hahaha We live in LA area, so no one seems to care here (meaning no one even looks at us twice unless giving a compliment). I'm guessing it will be the same there. Anyway, I can't wait to check out the black owned restaurant video!!
I think you two will be absolutely fine and have a wonderful experience. 🌺
Thank you so much!! @@bougiebohemian5393 🥰
@@dst6517you could not marry a black man
Hawaii has been so good to me the vibe and energy here is so positive I have met so many born and raised locals here that have shown me nothing but Aloha and Ohana! Sending love and positive vibes back to Maui!!!
I love Hawaii it’s a place I never want to leave, when I go there to visit Hawaii. The people the food the weather everything! This brother is right. I will be back soon.
I am glad you are loving Hawaii! Just be careful when you are in Kaaawa.
Be there soon. Great video. ❤
I watched with Stan and Net; of course, we are so thrilled with your presentation and very proud of you.
are you prior military?
Facts. Hawaii is the best place to raise a family if you can afford it. No scared work. Aloha to da max
💯Aloha to da max indeed!
Greetings Ohana…My family and I visited almost two years ago. My daughter and son in law renewed their vows at Byodo In Temple……As soon as we got off the plane it was like we all exhaled….Embraced ,Included and Respected is what we felt the entirety of our visit. Good and Decent people are just that..Good and Decent…..Thank you Ohana for being just that!!!…
Aloha 'Ohana! Ohhhh my goodness...just reading your words fill me up. You are taking me back to when I got off the plane and exhaled just like you all did. Embraced. Included. Respected. I feel all of that! And what a beautiful place to renew vows. I know core memories were made that day! Good and Decent indeed. I appreciate you and thank YOU, 'Ohana, for being just that!!!
You are so right a lot of the rudeness on Hawaii usually comes from place where there’s a lot of tourists. And sometimes in Chinatown, I don’t know why but there’s a touch of that non-welcoming vibe there too. But the local folks genuine salt of the Earth people with that big Ohana heart. For them is all about respect and kindness, you give it you get it. I’ve lived here for total of 17 years. This is my home and heart🤙🏾
Don't worry...it's not you. Some restaurants and shops are equally rude to EVERYONE in Chinatown. 😂
Mahalo, Dwayne. When we visited in summer 2023, our friend who lives and works in Waikiki declared she would never go back to the main land. She has been there for 20+ years now. I love Hawai’i and definitely embraced the chill vibe. I am happy that you are happy and in peace. Aloha🤙🏽💕🌼
😎❤🤙🏾Listen to me...I had no desire to live in Hawai'i. I was coming to VISIT! I got off the plane and in less than 24 hours I was trying to figure out a way to move here. The island pulled me IN! And just like your friend, I could stay here forever. 20+ years your friend has been here??? Wow! I'm glad you love Hawai'i too and were able to embrace the vibes. It's beautiful here. Mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) for your kind words. Aloha 🌴✨
I grew up in the islands and recently a friend of mine (94 years old, her husband was once the president of NAACP), made some comments how I was a “the perfect” minority - and feeling very uncomfortable, I listened to her explanation of her perceptions of “Asian-Americans” and I just had to accept her perceptions because they have been shaped by her life experiences. She seemed so puzzled when we spoke of what the culture in Hawaii is comprised of…but I sense that she can feel it through our friendship. I’m happy to watch this video and that you feel good in Hawai’i. Aloha!
Greetings! Thanks sooo much for sharing this! I am considering moving to downtown Honolulu in the future. I figured being in a place with such diversity of nonwhites would be easier going and a more pleasant experience for someone like me. I've lived in places that are predominantly white most of my life. Also, being mixed, living in a black community didn't work either. I wondered how I would be received by the locals and new locals there. I've only really seen the experiences of white Americans living in Hawaii. Do you think if you were a dark brown complexion, you would have the same experience? I only ask because I have relatives who are darker and wonder what it would be like for them to visit me once I move there. Thanks again! Blessings to you! Aloha!
I've lived here for 22 years now. For southern people moving here, the transition is smooth because aloha spirit is literally the same as southern hospitality. People come here from all over the world and some cultures don't do the wait in line thing and some do stare but its more out of curiosity because some of their home countries don't have black people. Sometimes you are the first black person that they have seen in their entire lives.
I'm so glad you said this! I was telling my Mom this exact thing! The aloha spirit and southern hospitality are very closely aligned. I'm from Atlanta and I got that southern hospitality baked in. Now...LA tried to beat it out of me, but it's still in there. lol I mean...waving at strangers, being kind and considerate to others, asking people about their family and how they are doing, and waiting for an answer, showing love and care for people. The transition to Hawaii was very reminiscent of me going home to see my family in the South. I hear you on Hawai'i being an international place and people will stare out of curiosity. You're right...sometimes, we are the first black person someone has ever seen.
@@dwaynearoundtown
I'm from Mississippi myself. Let me know if you have any questions I may or may not be able to assist you brother.
As a kanaka born and raised in Hawai’i, even I don’t like to traverse Chinatown 😅 But it’s true (especially in Waikiki) where entitlement and disrespect is evident. My hubby is born and raised in Wai’anae, he gets racially profiled all the time because of the color of his skin and he’s your typical local braddah. Yet, he is hardworking (in law enforcement).
Great video. but title is a little misleading. When we say local its referring to guys who were born here not because you live here. Spot on observations, the only guys who move here who have trouble usually start it from what I've seen. You really seem like a cool bradda that everyone would get along with. Best of luck with the vlogs.
Thank you for this video. This is your new subscriber from Los Angeles but watching this video on the big island. I myself understand where you are coming from because I don’t feel like I have to put the radar up when I’m on the big island me on the mainland from Los Angeles, where being black you have to always feel like you’re going to get pulled over by the police or get treated with terrible customer service at a restaurant or clothing store or the mall or whatever. And the one thing that I love about the big island is, we don’t have any Pookie and Ray Ray’s on the big island. The only Black that I meet over here are regular native black Americans like yourself. That’s why I love the big island not saying it don’t have problems over here but is definitely not like on the mainland. Well, I’m talking to my phone I hope this makes sense but thank you for this video. I totally understand where you are coming from Mahalo 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏿🤙🏿🤙🏿🤙🏿
I believe that here in Hawaii, you get what you give. I see a lot of foolishness of people acting entitled and talking loud and being just obnoxious and if you act that way here, locals will call you out. Just be respectful of the culture and be at peace. However, we do have our share of numbnuts flying around, so best just chillax and do your thing.
I would definitely choose Hawaii over Afrikkaa as gay black woman
You have amazing energy!! I’m so excited to visit now. You eased my anxiety. Everything that you said about the waves 🌊 and the beaches washing away the depression and negative vibes sold me. I’m an empath so I have to feel safe energetically. ❤& 💡 to you 😇
TY for sharing.✨🌞….It is nice like that on the Big Island too. More than one restaurant was playing R&B/Jazz… along with other genres…🤗
We’re on Oahu a ton and planning to possibly retire there in a few years- my mom was born there and my bff and his boyfriend have lived right on Waikiki for awhile now- we’re about to be there for a month this summer so we’re binge watching your videos for info and now we feel like you’re a friend lol 😂 love your channel 😊🤗☺️
Screaming this from a mountain top, Hawaiians' have a darken tone of skin as well, the time is done for splitting hairs. Nobody noticed, Nobody cares, it's all in ones' own mind and ideology. One is seeking to be treated differently, If you are constantly trying to sense it.
Great video. It makes me think it must be like as an older white gay couple, we only really feel safe in The Castro in SF and Palm Springs. Everywhere else, we never touch and our heads are in swivel mode. Just got home from a week on Waikiki Beach and saw just one brave couple holding hands.
“You gotta be respectful!”
You get “it”.
Welcome! With much aloha! 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
Mahalo Dwayne for the positive comments! It's the Aloha spirit that is a real thing. I moved to CA, and miss my Hawai'i every day. Trying to spread aloha in CA. Just keep the good attitude and respect the land and people and culture. Keep enjoying all there is to love about the islands...from another auntie!
thank you for sharing your story. I love Hawaii and it may be a good retirement place for me. I do have a sister in Hilo and when I visit it's hard to leave.
I agree that people cn be so rude/oblivious (talking about your restaurant experience). Its like they are the only ppl that exist. You have a good vibe and I'm glad you are having a good experience. I wouldn't expect anything other than that to be honest :)
in hawaii random strangers have casual conversations in the elevator.
Another great video Dwayne....you're right, you get what you put out towards others...i always tell my friends it's such a different positive vibe in Hawaii versus the Bay Area...everyone chilling...but you are going to get those few entitled jerks on vacation thinking its all about me, those are the ones that give the rest of the visitors a bad rep...so happy that you took the leap to move to Hawaii and enjoying life...and to all your followers, how Dwayne represents himself in the videos is how he is... I had the pleasure to spot him at the IMP, and we talked , he's more lovely in person....can't wait to see more of your videos...
What a refreshing video about my home ….. thank you !!!!!
Excellent topic and loves you insight and attitude towards the subject. 👏🏾🙏🏾
Very well said and spoken!! Open mind and open heart good advice
Touch down in Oahu in 96 and ain't look back... I married a local and started a family... the most PEACEFUL place ever and perfect for retirement also if you can afford it...
You know what? I love hearing this. I've met so many other brothers and sisters who have moved here and never left! It's always so encouraging to hear. The peace here is euphoric. I feel more creative, more connected, less stressed (not to say that life is perfect...cuz it ain't), but the quality of life is so rich here.
I love in Ewa and as a black man I can double down on this
Yeh, i feel for you about your restraunt experience, D. Having worked in food service, if i were the host, would've told that couple..."Hold up! This guy was here b4 you, so just wait your turn, alright?!" Usually, the most likely "offenders" are visitors (sorry to lump those eggs in the same basket) or just recently moved here. That kinda "Me first" ass-itude has no business in this Land of Aloha but there are those types of people Everywhere! It's just a Sad state of affairs....Matt. 7:12...Aloha, my paele braddah...Keep the videos coming
I appreciate you! Knowing that you would've intervened feel nice...even much later after the situation. That "me first" ass-itude, as you cleverly stated, has no business in this Land of Aloha...but people are people everywhere! This "Me first" attitude is something that I see a lot with guests. People pay their money to come and feel they are entitled to do what they want. Even walking on the sidewalk in Waikiki ...there are times I have to step into the street because visitors walking toward me with their family and friends take up the entire sidewalk, instead of sharing. People are people everywhere.
I should've been ur friend in that moment, they would've gotten the hell out of our way. Lord, someone say a prayer for me. I'll be there in July 😂
See?? You trying to get it turned up! 😂😂You remind me of one of my cousins!. lol Sometimes I'm just caught off guard by people's behavior and lack of consideration of others. I know you see me... It doesn't happen often but when it does...it's really frustrating. See you in July!!! What are you most excited about?