Recognition of a Native Hawaiian Government by the U.S. Government would be a powerful tool for removing roadblocks to our continued growth in education, health, restoration of sacred sites, lanuage revitilization and returning deference to our cultural laws and other Native rights. A government to government relationship provides a path to regaining control of our own assets.
WHY I SUPPORT FEDERAL RECOGNITION
PROTECTION OF CURRENT PROGRAMS AND ASSETS
Federal recognition would provide a level of protection against losing current assets. More specifically, recognition of a Native Hawaiian government would protect the rights of beneficiaries as defined in the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. It would preserve Kamehameha Schools preference policy and current resources provided through the Native Hawaiian Education and Native Hawaiian Healthcare Acts.
SELF -DETERMINATION AND SELF-GOVERNANCE
Federal recognition porivdes a voluntary opportunity for Hawaiians to establish a government by Hawaiians for Hawaiians. It is an opportunity to take a seat at the table with an active role in improving the lives, and the future of our people. Recognition would allow Hawaiians an opportunity to develop public policy that acknowledges and honors our culture, values and traditions.
RECOGNITION DOES NOT NEGATE INDEPENDENCE
Federal reognition is completely voluntary and does not impede upon any desire by others to continue the quest for
independence. It is not a choice for every Hawaiian but there is no reason for anyone to create barriers based on varying opinions. As a supporter of federal recognition, I respect the individual ability of others to choose independence and to pursue the work necessary in the international arena.
RECONCILES OUR PAST WITH HOPE FOR OUR FUTURE
Federal recognition gets us out from under the state goverment. It allows us to deploy our best ideas and resources about culture, native rights, and malama aina. Recognition offers us the right to exercise our sovereignty by taking responsibility for the well being of the Native Hawaiian people.
OPPORTUNITY FOR DUAL CITIZENSHIP
Federal recognition is a process in which the U.S. acknowledges the existence of a Native Hawaiian government. Recognition ensures that Native Hawaiians are a political class of people, beyond a racial class. As a recognized Native Hawaiian government, citizens of the Hawaiian Nation continue to be U.S. citizens while becoming citizens of the Native Hawaiin Government. Recognition supports dual citizenship!