ʻIke Insider

April is fast approaching and we will soon gather for the 40th Annual Pacific Rim Conference in the beautiful city of Honolulu, Hawai’i. We welcome all of you with open arms, from near and far, who will join us as we celebrate a significant milestone — not just in the history of this conference, but in the enduring spirit of our community and our movement.

This year’s theme, “By Us and For Us: Legacy and Future of Our Movement,” resonates deeply with the essence of who we are. For 40 years, we have come together to share, learn, and create solutions that reflect our collective experiences and aspirations. This conference stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, of communities coming together, and of each of you contributing to something larger than ourselves.

The theme reminds us that the strength of our movement lies in our collective efforts. Every person who will be here, from the speakers and thought leaders to the attendees and volunteers, is a vital part of a story that spans generations. You have all contributed in unique and powerful ways to the growth of our shared vision, whether through research, advocacy, community building, or simply standing together in solidarity.

This conference is a reflection of the vibrant, diverse communities we represent. We come from all corners of the world, from different cultures, backgrounds, and disciplines, yet we are united by a common purpose — to continue the work of those who came before us and to carry the torch forward for future generations. Your presence — whether from across the Pacific or across the globe — reinforces the strength of our global community, and we are truly grateful for the perspectives, insights, and wisdom you bring.

On behalf of the University of Hawaii, Center on Disability Studies, we want to once again extend a warm aloha to each and every one of you who will be joining us. Let us take this time to not only celebrate what we’ve accomplished but also to reaffirm our commitment to the movement — one that is by us, for us, and will continue to thrive through each and every one of us. Thank you, and look forward to seeing you soon at the 40th Annual Pacific Rim Conference! Let’s make our days together count, and continue the work of creating a lasting legacy for generations to come.

– Jared Galeai, Pac Rim Conference Chair