Program discusses the people who laid the foundation that helped create modern Hawaii

From 1906-46, some 125,000 Filipinos known as “Sakadas” were recruited by the Hawaii Sugar Planters Association to work in the sugar cane and pineapple fields of the Hawaiian Islands.

Throughout the last century of sugar growing in Hawaii, the Sakadas, meaning “lower-paid workers from out of the area” in the Tagalog and Ilokano languages of the Philippines. In Hawaii, the term became synonymous with these pioneers who came here for adventure and to seek a better life for themselves and their families. They and their descendants formed the majority of the labor force that increased sugar and pineapple production, laying a foundation for the economic growth and stability that helped create modern Hawaii.

Romel Dela Cruz, an esteemed authority on the Filipino experience in Hawaii, introduces these remarkable people and their remarkable times, and the labor movement that many credit as the turning point in Hawaii’s progressive history during “Appreciating the Sakada Connection in Hawaii.” Learn more about the Sakadas during the next Patricia E. Saigo Public Program Series event at the Lyman Museum on either of two occasions, 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 27, or 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 28.

Admission is free to museum members, $3 for nonmembers. Support the museum by becoming a member and enjoy all Saigo series programs, all year, at no charge.

Seating is limited. On Monday evenings, additional parking is available next door at Hilo Union School; park and walk through our green gate in the rock wall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the Monday presentation.

The nationally accredited and Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Hawaii. Located at 276 Haili St. in historic downtown Hilo, the museum is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For more information, call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org.