WHY ARE THEY AFRAID OF HOLDING AKAKA BILL HEARINGS IN HAWAI`I?
It is unfortunate that several indigenous peoples continue to be misled by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (a quasi-state entity that has been compared to the BIA) and other American establishments (i.e. CNHA and NHOs) who feel they can promote and seek federal recognition on behalf of the kānaka maoli.
Yes, there are some Native Hawaiians who desire federal recognition. For the most part, these Native Hawaiians have some form of self-interest (i.e. OHA trustee or employee, NHO president, Executive Director of non-profit receiving funds designated for native and part-Hawaiians) that will be expanded through federal recognition, while the majority of kānaka maoli continue to live in poverty, suffer from poor health, and lack educational opportunities.
Contrary to the establishments' messages that kānaka maoli support and favor federal recognition; thousands of kānaka maoli do not support nor desire federal recognition.
Instead, these kānaka maoli desire a "fair, free, and impartial process" to determine our future without being forced to consent to federal recognition that would automatically remove independence as an option.
Furthermore, it is undemocratic that requested hearings by kānaka maoli on the Akaka Bill (H.B. 2314, S.B. 1011) have not been acknowledged and arranged.
Kānaka maoli have never been allowed to present testimony on these measures. In 2000, two days of hearings were held on O`ahu Island, all other hearings were canceled.
As a kānaka maoli, I humbly request that you support democratic hearings for the kānaka maoli to voice their concerns about the Akaka Bill and a democratic process that is "fair, free, and impartial" that will allow kānaka maoli to determine their future, rather than giving the Akaka Bill your blanket support.
Kanakaokawaikaaipohaku
Hawai`i Island, Hawai`i
