HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A race to claim the Shaka as Hawaii’s official state gesture is underway. Lawmakers are considering HB2736. It’s a bill that would codify the symbol’s ties to the islands.

The shaka gesture, characterized by extending the pinky and thumb with curled fingers, originates from Hawaii and symbolizes various warm sentiments like greetings, gratitude and aloha spirit.

KANEOHE, Hawaii — A pinky and thumb extended with the remaining fingers curled down: That’s the “shaka” in Hawaii. The gesture is sometimes known outside the islands as the “hang loose” sign ...

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly talks with Hawaiian native Ryan Ozawa about a pair of bills in the state legislature that would make the shaka an official state gesture. Over the years, the shaka has become ...