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Washington, DC – Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) in commending the House for passing H.R. 505, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007. The bill passed by a vote of 261-153.
The legislation would take another step in the reconciliation process by providing Native Hawaiians the same right of self-governance and self-determination that are afforded to other indigenous peoples. Since the illegal overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1893, Native Hawaiians have continued to suffer more than a century of injustice. This includes neglect and abuse of Native Hawaiian entitlements and civil rights by the United States.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA-08): “I am pleased that the House passed the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007 today. Formally creating a path to self-determination is critical to the preservation of Native Hawaiian history and culture,” said Speaker Pelosi. “Our diversity is our strength. Allowing a process for the indigenous people of Hawaii to be federally recognized makes our nation stronger.”
Rep. Mike Honda (CA-15): “Today’s passage of the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act is a step towards resolving the injustice put upon the indigenous people of Hawaii for over a century,” said Rep. Mike Honda, Chair of CAPAC. “As CAPAC continues our commitment in ensuring fundamental fairness for Native Hawaiians, we call upon the Senate and the President to ensure safe passage of this important piece of legislation.”
Rep. Neil Abercrombie (HI-01): “It’s highly appropriate that today’s House vote to approve the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act was the 1000th vote of the Democratic-led 110th Congress,” said Representative Neil Abercrombie, who sponsored the House bill. “We’ve made significant progress in promoting individual opportunity and self-determination; none more important than the Akaka Bill.”
Rep. Mazie K. Hirono (HI-02): “Today’s vote reaffirms that Native Hawaiians, as the indigenous, native people of Hawaii, are entitled to the same rights for self determination as are American Indians and Alaska Natives,” said Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono. “I am very proud to have had the opportunity to co-introduce this bill and to argue for it on the floor of the U.S. House. The resounding vote supporting passage shows that the majority recognize that justice for Native Hawaiians is long overdue. This is a victory for all the people of Hawaii and our nation. I appreciate the support for this legislation by Chairman Mike Honda and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.”
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