In 2014, there were two recipients of the Distinguished Peacemakers Award: Roy Sakuma and Kathy Sakuma.
Roy Sakuma and Kathy Sakuma have dedicated their lives to peace education by teaching and perpetuating the Aloha spirit through the art form of the ukulele.
As musical educators, they have both taught countless children, adults and seniors, discipline, artistry and a respect for both their own lives and others.
For over 44 years, they have brought people of all ages from around the world to celebrate laughter, love and hope at the annual Ukulele Festival in Kapiolani Park.
Since the 1970’s, this festival has become a symbol of peace and harmony in bringing people of all ages and background from around the world who love to share the Ukulele together. Keiki and Kupuna gather side by side and play together on the third Sunday of every July.
Both Roy and Kathy traveled to Fukushima, Japan and to areas affected by the 2011 Tsunami and Earthquake. They brought gifts of ukuleles and a message of hope and encouraged both children and their families.
For their spirited commitment to peace education as music teachers and community peace builders, for the inspiration and encouragement they have shared with countless students since the 1970’s who have gone on to inspire and work for peace in their own fields, Peace Day Hawaii proudly congratulates Roy and Kathy Sakuma for sharing their Aloha spirit and for touching hearts through the instrument of peace, the ukulele.