HONOLULU (KHON2) — For Black History Month, KHON2 is celebrating and honoring the contributions and legacy of African Americans across the country.

Only two percent of Hawaii’s population is African American but this small community is making a big impact on youngsters who are discovering and sharing their heritage.

Young actors from Hawaii’s military community are not only rehearsing their production of Disney’s “Lion King Jr.,” but they are also sharing their African American culture and others are joining them to celebrate.

“Working on this show, specifically during Black History Month is about embracing heritage, family unity and standing for what is right,” said Alison Maldonado. “Our production, especially with the youth, is about celebrating family heritage, culture resilience and community.”

The cast ranges from 10 to 18 years old and are rehearsing on Hickam Air Force Base.

Journey Glasgow was born in New York, raised in Spain and now resides in Hawaii, which she said is “kinder than anywhere she’s lived before.”

I’m excited to be able to share my culture with the world. I’m excited to learn even more about my culture. I think there is a level of respect here in Hawaii that we don’t get in the mainland. So when I moved to Hawaii it was a culture shock how loving and respectful people are.

Joruney Glasgow

Even though the African American community is still small with limited resources, Alison Maldonado is doing what she can to create places and activities that bring her beloved community together.

“We want to provide spaces where we can give support and mentorship and within that, we want to make sure, especially as a black community, because it is so small, that we can make sure that everyone feels seen, valued and connected.”

Maldonado is a playwright studying for her Master of Fine Arts Degree at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and aims to inspire the African-American community in Hawaii.

“Especially when it comes to uplifting stories about women, children, families and communities. I want to make sure that I’m especially doing stories that talk about history and culture, which the Lion King, Jr does,” Maldonado added.

Sixteen-year-old Lennox Kepa and his 10-year-old brother, Philex, play Mufasa and Young Simba and give Maldonado thanks as the Lion King’s story and lyrics have taken on a new meaning for them.

“It’s not just music that we’re singing. We get to use them in the show and that’s really fun because we actually understand the meaning behind the music in The Lion King,” said Lennox.

What we want to do is make sure that all of our stories are being heard. There’s been some recent efforts to try and erase black history. Rather than being upset and angry, what we have to do is step aside and make sure that we are out there telling our stories.

Alison Maldonado

The Hawaii Military Community Theatre will present the show from March 28 to March 30 at Paliku Theatre on the grounds of Windward Community College in Kaneohe.