The ‘No Hate in the 808’ campaign launches on May 1, 2026, coinciding with the BFA thesis exhibition at the 808 Gallery. This initiative aims to combat discrimination in Hawaiʻi through a collaboration of three state commissions and a local nonprofit.
The BFA thesis exhibition showcases work from 37 students at the College of Fine Arts School of Visual Arts. It features various artistic mediums, including painting, printmaking, sculpture, and graphic design. The exhibition runs until May 9, 2026.
“I want the viewers to know that this is someone who has so much love coming from her and toward her,” said Mackenzie Jutras, whose thesis project is a portrait of her friend Mary Haddad. Truck Schachtman, another student, expressed his hope for viewers to engage emotionally with his work about the masculine body.
The ‘No Hate in the 808’ campaign emphasizes education about Hawaiʻi’s nondiscrimination protections. It aims to ensure every resident understands that discrimination has no place in the islands. Campaign advertisements will appear on buses from May 1 through May 31, 2026.
“I hope they’re willing to sit with it and look at it not just as an art piece, but also as an expression of emotion and physicality,” Schachtman added. Rye Liu, inspired by jellyfish anatomy, also hopes viewers will feel curiosity and enjoyment through his colorful designs.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in raising public awareness about discrimination issues within Hawaiʻi. The collaboration between state commissions signals a unified approach to fostering inclusivity.
The exhibition’s opening reception is scheduled for May 1, 2026, from 5 to 7 pm. Attendees can expect a vibrant display of artistic expression alongside important discussions about equality and acceptance.
