When a name is given to a child, it is believed that they will encompass and embody the meaning of that name in their lifetime.

In Hawaiian culture, the tradition of naming is important. When a name is given to a child, it is believed that they will encompass and embody the meaning of that name in their lifetime.

This process of naming can also be a spiritually powerful one. When a mother is pregnant, she, a family member, or both may choose a name based on:

• Inoa pō, a name that comes in the form of a dream
• Inoa hō‘ailona, a vision that usually occurs in nature
• Inoa ‘ūlāleo, a name believed to be spoken directly by a mystical voice

The process of naming can also include a family name or location. 

In keeping with local culture, NOAA partner organizations have engaged Hawaiian cultural practitioners and community members in the naming process for the past several years.

Some stranded seals are brought to The Marine Mammal Center’s Hawaiian monk seal hospital and visitor center, Ke Kai Ola, on Hawaiʻi Island for rehabilitation. A cultural practitioner from the area where the seal was rescued names the animal, according to Lauren Van Heukelem, Response and Operations Coordinator at the Center. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/how-hawaiian-monk-seals-get-their-names