Our keiki need you more than ever! Come together as one voice and advocate on behalf of Hawaiʻi's children and families.
Join Hawaiʻi Children's Action Network on January 21, 2026 as we kick off the legislative session with the voices of families leading the way. Meet us in the Rotunda of the Capitol and look for our HCAN Speaks! table and get your FREE HCAN tshirt — we have shirts for keiki too! Come connect, speak out, and stand with us because when we show up together, our keiki win.
Let’s start the 2026 Legislative Session strong by letting lawmakers know we want to ensure keiki, caregivers, and community are thriving! All attendees can attend one of these info sessions prior to Opening Day to get more detailed information:
- Wednesday, January 14th at 12:00 PM (Register here.)
- Monday, January 19th at 5:00 PM (Register here.)
Live outside of Oʻahu? Contact Mele Andrade at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Opening Day?
Opening Day marks the start of Hawaiʻi's legislative session. It’s a time for community members, advocates, and organizations to gather at the Capitol, connect with lawmakers, and highlight issues that matter to Hawaiʻi’s families and keiki. Hide answer
Why is HCAN participating?
HCAN shows up on Opening Day to uplift family voices and advocate for policies that make Hawaiʻi a place where all keiki can thrive. Our presence helps ensure legislators recognize that families and children are a top priority. Hide answer
Where does the event take place?
Hawaiʻi State Capitol Most activities happen on the first-floor rotunda and surrounding lawn. Hide answer
What time does the event start and end?
HCAN’s Opening Day activities typically run from 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM. We’ll share a full schedule of speakers, meet-ups, and activities as the date gets closer. Hide answer
Do I need to register?
We encourage all attendees to register so we can prepare materials and send important updates. Hide answer
Is this event free?
Yes! HCAN's Opening Day is free and open to the public. Hide answer
Who is invited?
Everyone who cares about Hawaiʻi's keiki — including:
Families with children are welcome. Hide answer
Can I bring my keiki?
Absolutely! This event is keiki-friendly, though children must remain under adult supervision. We’ll have simple activities and materials to help keep youth engaged. Hide answer |
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and consider teal or previous HCAN T-shirts if you have them. The Capitol is partially outdoors, so bring sun protection or rain gear as needed. We will be giving out 2026 Opening Day HCAN t-shirts for attendees AND KEIKI TOO! Hide answer
Where can I park?
Parking options include:
Carpooling or public transit is encouraged. Hide answer
What will HCAN be doing at the Capitol?
Our activities may include:
A full schedule will be released soon. Hide answer
How can I support HCAN on Opening Day?
You can help by:
Do I need to meet with lawmakers?
We will be going upstairs in groups with HCAN leads/parent advocates during office visits with lawmakers and we can provide tips or scripts if you’d like to talk with them when we meet. Hide answer
Will HCAN provide advocacy materials?
We’ll have print and digital materials that explain our legislative priorities and how you can take action. Hide answer
Who can I contact for more information?
Email HCAN's engagement team: |
When
Where
415 S Beretania St
Honolulu, HI 96813
United States
Google map and directions