Synchronicity is an undeniable theme throughout the life of Kapulani Patterson AKA Hawaiian Blaze. Each step of their journey in skating, life, and art all feel meant to be.
Stumbling upon roller derby through a peer in trauma recovery after being medically retired from the Air Force reshaped their life in enumerable and amazing ways. In nearly ten years of playing, Kapulani met their spouse, found community, and leaned into their power as a skater and human being.
In recent years Kapulani has deepened their connection to roller derby through skating for Team Indigenous Rising. As an indigenous, queer, Māhū skater, they hold the rallying cry for Indigenous skater representation in the sport close to their heart. Skating alongside their teammates on Team Indigenous Rising they have amplified one another’s ancestral wisdom and strength, and they’ve made big moves in not only the athletic but organizing arenas. The team has stood strong together through discrimination, and in this conversation we talk about Kapulani’s perspective on the organizers at BOTAs 2023 questioning their right to participate as a borderless team. We also go on to talk bout how the team has continued to support each other to keep pushing in the face of ignorance.
Kapulani also shares their thoughts on how roller derby could educate skaters and officials to make it an inclusive space. We get into the racism and transphobia that are present in the international WFTDA community, and the roles that interpersonal connection as well organizations play in shaping progress and inclusivity.
Their entry into the world of stained glass art seem just as destined in the way that their metal skills acquired during their military service branched into their artwork. And what’s more, they have since channeled their artwork into a means to raise awareness of Hawaiian cultural history and drawing attention to the thousands of missing and murdered indigenous women.
This interview is jam-packed with thoughtful reflections from this amazing skater, artist, and mother. Tune in to hear about all the exciting projects they have in the works!
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