Discussion on Hawaiian Sovereignty Insights

Nov 12, 2024

Insights on Hawaiian Sovereignty

Introduction

  • Host: Daryl Huff from Hawaii News Now
  • Topic: Achieving Hawaiian sovereignty
  • Context: 22 years since President Bill Clinton's apology for the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy.
  • Objective: Discuss achieving formal recognition of a Native Hawaiian governing entity.
  • Audience Participation: Viewers encouraged to call in or interact via social media.

Panelists

  • Peter Apo: Trustee with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), former State House Representative.
  • Lili Kala Kamaelehewa: Director of the Kamakakua Kalani Center for Hawaiian Studies, University of Hawaii Manoa.
  • Kalei Kaua Ka'eo: Associate Professor at University of Hawaii Maui College, sovereignty activist.
  • Bumpy Kanahele: Head of State for the Nation of Hawaii, CEO of Aloha First.

Key Definitions and Concepts

Sovereignty

  • Lili Kala's Definition: Political control over land.
  • Bumpy Kanahele's Perspective: National sovereignty is about identity and control over national lands.
  • Historical Context: Hawaiian Kingdom's annexation by the U.S. is disputed; no legal annexation treaty exists.

Independence vs. Sovereignty

  • Peter Apo's View: Sovereignty does not necessarily equal independence; could involve federal recognition leading to a 'nation within a nation' model.
  • Federal Recognition: Seen as a step towards controlling lands and resources.

Federal Recognition Debate

  • Pros:
    • Protects entitlements and allows for self-determination.
    • Allows Hawaiians to have a government not controlled by the state.
  • Cons:
    • Seen by some as assimilation and loss of true independence.
    • Potentially aligns with problematic aspects of federal Indian law (Marshall Trilogy).

Sovereignty Models and Visions

Federal Recognition Approach

  • Lili Kala's Argument: Provides immediate land and governmental control, and can serve as a stepping stone towards full independence.
  • Peter Apo's Argument: Protects Hawaiian entitlements and ensures legal standing.

Independence

  • Kalei Kaua Ka'eo's Argument: Focus on restorative justice for historical wrongs and reclaiming national identity.
  • Bumpy Kanahele's Perspective: Restoring national sovereignty without federal constraints.

Challenges and Needs

  • Land and Housing Crisis: Critical need for land and housing for the Hawaiian population, many of whom are living outside Hawaii or are houseless.
  • Education Control: Desire for a Hawaiian-run education system to better serve the community.
  • National Unity: Importance of a clear and united vision amongst Native Hawaiians for sovereignty to succeed.

Audience Engagement

Viewer Questions and Discussions

  • Hawaiian Roll Commission: Concerns over participation and representation.
  • Non-Hawaiian Concerns: Addressing equality and rights in a sovereign model.

Sovereignty and Civil Rights

  • Pathway to Independence: Education on history and legal rights emphasized as vital.
  • Community Empowerment: Encouragement for non-natives to support Hawaiian rights actively.

Closing Thoughts

  • Peter Apo's Caution: Importance of public support for any model of sovereignty.
  • Kalei Kaua's Emphasis: Truthful education and historical awareness as pathways to independence.
  • Lili Kala’s Hope: Future independence with fair land rights for Native Hawaiians.

Conclusion

The discussion reflects diverse perspectives within the Hawaiian community on sovereignty, independence, and federal recognition, each with its own set of challenges and potential pathways forward. Continued dialogue and education are essential for progress towards achieving Hawaiian self-determination and nationhood.