There’s an old saying, “you are what you celebrate,” that nicely describes the Hawai’i Division’s annual recognition awards. Held this past February in Hilo, the annual event pays tribute to Hawaiʻi Island’s most active units and pensioners. 

Harry Kamoku Hall was packed inside and out as this event is much anticipated and brings members together from across the massive island for fellowship and to honor the thing that makes the union strong - member activity. 

This year’s theme was “love” because who doesn’t love growing participation in pensioner clubs and mobilized units? The team spirit of the division was seen as every person showed up in pink or red. 

A hui hou to Sui Ling Poy and Colleen Antonio.

A heartfelt message of aloha and gratitude was shared with two longtime ILWU staff who are moving into retirement this year. 

Sui Ling Poy, who served as a Hawaiʻi Division Clerk for 33 years. Division Director, Elmer Gorospe had these words to say, “Thank you for all the years of services you have provided to our members, and pensioners from assisting them with issues when they come to the office and helping those pensioners fill out their pension annual affidavit and assisting our FTOs to sound more professional on paper. Thank you for the life-long commitment you have provided to this organization. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!” 

Hawaiʻi Division Organizer, Colleen Antonio was also recognized by the Division Director on behalf of the union, “Colleen held the position as organizer/ mobilizer for Hawaii Division for well over 23 years, who was part of a team that successfully organized Outrigger Keahou, Sheraton Keahou, Queens North Hawaii Community Hospital just to name a few. Colleen also helps mobilize numerous units on the Big Island in preparation for their upcoming negotiation. Thank you for your years of service with the ILWU.”

The Division then proceeded to recognize outstanding Units for their member engagement and activity. Pensioners, who turned out in large numbers, were also recognized for growing the program and for their activity. 

Events like the Hawaiʻi Division Awards and Recognition Banquet serve a deeper purpose than simply handing out plaques or saying “mahalo” to longtime members. They reinforce the union’s culture of solidarity, reminding everyone that the strength of the ILWU isn’t found in contracts or offices, but in the people who show up, stand together, and carry the union forward.

Taking time out to celebrate— whether it’s through heartfelt tributes, laughter-filled fellowship, or an entire hall dressed in shades of red and pink—builds a sense of belonging. It reaffirms that every contribution matters, from the pensioner who keeps the retiree club active to the unit leader who mobilizes their coworkers when it counts. 

In a time when the pace of work and life can make people feel disconnected, these gatherings serve as a powerful counterbalance. They remind members that the union is more than a structure—it’s a living, breathing community.