Report clarifies intent
of Akaka billThe issue: A Senate committee outlines
issues of concern about the measure that
would give federal recognition to Hawaiians.A report from a Senate committee on a bill that would provide federal recognition for Hawaiians appears to make the measure more palatable to its opponents. Even so, skepticism remains about the weight the bill would carry when it comes to ceded lands and about the state's role in establishing a self-governing entity.
Nevertheless, the bill represents the best chance for Hawaiians to realize their goal of sovereignty and it should be embraced.
The bill, introduced by Sen. Daniel Akaka after public hearings in Hawaii, was rejected by Congress last year. It was revised and reintroduced this year and its chances for passage seemed certain. However, critics said the changes in the bill were not given further hearings and objected to language that appears to place a governing entity in the hands of the state. The committee report sought to assuage those fears by clarifying the bill's intent, saying that the provision was included only to reassure the U.S. government that the state supports Hawaiian recognition. "The committee does not intend that the state of Hawaii have any role in determining the native Hawaiian governing entity," the report states.
On the issue of ceded lands, the report states that the bill's intent is to allow a governing entity to negotiate claims to ceded lands directly with the U.S. and state governments and does not limit a land base only to Hawaiian homelands and the island of Kahoolawe, as critics contend.
Opponents say the committee's outline of intentions is not good enough. Some would rather have the bill withdrawn and redone. If so, they must recognize that there is a chance other events and issues may overshadow their interests. As it is now, Congress has given over most of its attention to matters related to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Earlier this summer, the bill was almost assured of approval but at present Akaka's office cannot predict when and if it will pass.
Hawaiians have waited long for relief from the federal government and the argument can be made for further patience in fashioning a more acceptable bill. But changes are made in small steps and the passage of the Akaka bill should be viewed as just one in the many paces this transition will require.
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