Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 7, Number 11, 1 November 1990 — Federal Candidate Profiles [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]
Federal Candidate Profiles
*Denotes incumbent (R) Republican (D) Democrat
(L) Libertarian (N) Nonpartisan
U.S. Senate Daniel K. Akaka (D)
As the first Native Hawaiian U.S. Senator, I know the hardship many Hawaiians have faced for generations, and 1 am working to help them meet their needs. 1 have introduced leqislation to brinq
about a greater federal commitment to Hawaiians by establishing a trust relationship between Native Hawaiians and the federal government. As the original inhabitants of Hawai'i, Hawaiians should be recognized as a unique class of citizens by the U.S. government. Presently, the federal government recognizes its responsibility to provide special resources for other Native Americans but does not recognize its responsibility to Native Hawaiians. My legislation would open the way to greater resources for Hawaiian health, education and housing. These programs need to allow for the nurturing of our cultural tradition and philosophieal views whieh contribute to our overall wellbeing. Native Hawaiians need programs that enable them to excel in today's society, and at the same time know and appreciate their culture and heritage. In regard to Hawaiian Home Lands, building infrastructure and improvements should beajoint effort between the State of Hawai'i and the United States Government. I have introduced legislation to make Hawaiian Home Lands eligible for Community Development Block Grant infrastructure funds, and to make lessee farmers eligible for Farmer's Home Administration loans and eligible for the Agricultural Conservation cost-sharing program for purchasing water meters and irrigation pipes. I will continue to work for the return of lands reded from the Kingdom of Hawai'i through the U.S. annexation in 1898. Some of the land that the federal government retained hasbecome surplus. I have prevented the federal government from selling these lands to the highest bidder by requiring that they be returned to the state through negotiated bids. Hawaiians have a right to benefit from these lands. I also believe Hawaiians have rights to fresh water access, access to cultural and historic areas, and to trails and the shoreline. To conc!ude, today, there are many separate organizations dedicated to helping Native Hawaiians. I believe that leaders from all the various organizations should meet under one roof and put their heads together to direct their diverse resources in a unified and planned program for the maximum benefit of the Hawaiian people. As a U.S. Senator, I would like to help bring about such a conference — to help create a brighter future for Hawaiians and our state as a whole. Pat Saiki (R)
Hawai'i and our nation have reached an important crossroads at this time, and our islands and our people are being challenged anew everyday. Our needs are similar to the nation's, yet the approach we
must take to address them is unique. Environmentally, our Pacific islands deserve every concentrated amount of attention, for without a elean environment, our people will suffer. Educationally, for Hawai'i and our nation to
compete internationally in the 21st century, our children must have every possible educational advantage. It is our duty to provide that advantage. Specifically regarding Native Hawaiians, for far too long they have not been adequately served at the state or federal levels. The commitment to Native Hawaiians, particularly with regard to the Hawaiian Homelands program, has simply not been met. 1 view the unfulfilled promise of housing for Native Hawaiians as one of the greatest shortcomings of government policy over the last few decades. We have a loeal and nahonal duty to provide Hawaiians the means to use their lands and establish homes for their families and their descendants. For that reason, and with great satisfaction, I shepherded legislation through the House of Representatives this year whieh will make available the full use of federal funds for Native Hawaiian families. This !egislation, when enacted into law, will provide for elderly housing funds, mortgage assistanee, building and operational support for public housing, and infrastructure development for Hawaiian Home Lands. My amendments in the overall housing legislation will reverse a decades-old po!icy of excluding Hawaiians from federal housing assistance programs. Native Hawaiians will now become eligible for all federal housing assistance programs, and will be able to compete for community development funds to establish the infrastructure whieh is necessary to create Home Lands housing Hawai'i receives more than $15 million annually for these purposes, some of whieh will be available for Home Lands use upon the enactment of this legis!ation. In addition, I have continually supported efforts in the Congress to assist Native Hawaiians by creating and funding education and health care programs specifically for Hawaiians. I led the successful fight in the House to defeat an attempt to cut $6 million in education funds for Hawaiians. Whether the issue is geothermal energy, housing, education or the use of Kaho'olawe by the military, I have heen accessible to Hawaiians and have fought for their best interests. As a state legislator for 14 years, and a two-term member of Congress, I have helped shape a better Hawai'i and a better nation for Hawaiians and for all Hawai'i. Every vote I have cast in the Congress has been cast with Hawaii's people and the nation's welfare in mind. lf elected to the U.S. Senate. I will eonhnue my commitment to the people of Hawai'i that my votes on the f!oor of the U.S. Senate will be cast with their welfare in mind, and with our nation's future at stake. I will do so with an independent, open mind, and with every effort to make my presence in Washington meaningful and resperted. Hawai'i deserves the best representation we ean provide, and I intend to provide that kind of leadership. Ken Schoolland (L)
Hawaiians must be allowed to sue in national and international courts for their landsand for just
compensation for revenues denied them. If such abuses are to be prevented in the future, then political and government officials must be held personally liable for the denial of Hawaiian rights. Hawaiian lands that were "traded-off" to private interests against the desires of the Hawaiian people must be returned, just as is proper in any case of the recovery of stolen property. Hawaiians who choose to secede have the same right to do so as those who signed the Declaration of Independence. They should not be impeded from doing so. However, 1 urge those who choose independence to do so on the basis of individual sovereignty rather than to simply replace old rulers with new rulers over their lives.
U.S. House lst Congressional Dist. (Urban Honolulu) Neil Abercrombie (D)
What do you think are the most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years? Land, housing, health care and education. What steps would you take, or what course would you
follow to address that issuer First, study the inventory of all Hawaiian lands on all islands; review the list of applicants; length of time on list; and update qualified and interested applicants together with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Second, form committees to move the infrastructure and building of homes; help to establish a low interest loan fund according to qualifications; and set goals to let Hawaiians manage their own lands Third, with revenues from rentals of Hawaiian Home Lands, establish health care clinirs within the homestead areas or designated points throughout the Hawaiian lslands; establish nonprofit health care program; and look to obtain federal funding wherever possible. Fourth, establish funds for hioher education with moneys derived from revenues. Mike Liu (R)
The most important issue facing Native Hawaiians is the laek of action by the state and federal governments to make housing and eeonomie opportunities a reality for them. Valuabie lands have been ceded to Native
nawanans ior nousing or agncuuuiai ueveiupment. However, state and federal governments have failed to provide Native Hawaiians real aecess and benefits from these resources. The state government has poorly managed these resources by not requiring the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to provide the infrastructure needed for these lands to be usable for family homes and farms. It is unconscionable that in the last three years, fewer than 200 homes have been built on thes' lands. People have been waiting for 20 years to be granted land to use for ranching or small farms. The federal qovernment has not provided real financial assistance to Native Hawaiians to make homes on homelands happen. Recently, Rep. Pat Saiki fought for a change in the law to provide community block grants to Native Hawaiians for continued poge 1 7
Land that belongs to Hawaiians should be returned to them immediately, fee simple and with no strings attached. No paternalistic state agencv should interfere with the ownership and use of that land by Hawaiians.
Federal Candidate Profiles
U.S. House housing development and other community needs. This is the kind of action that must be continued on behalf of Native Hawaiians. The federal government should establish performance standards for agencies such as the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Specific numbers of homes, roads and water and sewage systems should be put in plaee in a given time frame by state departments such as DHHL. I would fight to make sure that Hawaiians get the full benefit of community development grants. I would work to establish and enhanee Head Start programs for Native Hawaiian children and make sure that Native Hawaiians are considered if the proposed "Follow Through" program — an elementary school supplement to Head Start — is funded. I will make sure that any programs whieh encourage eeonomie self-sufficiency for low-in-eome groups provide opportunities for Native Hawaiians as well. I will work closely with Hawaiian organizations that want to qualify for grants under the federal omnibus housing bill that should be passed later this year. Department of Housing and Urban Development officials assure me that they will put the Omnibus Housing Act on a fast-track onee it becomes law. Roger Lee Taylor (L)
Roger Taylor is a professional mathematician and the Libertarian eandidate for the U.S. House of Representatives District (1). Dr. Taylor's motivation to run is his eoneem that eaeh person's individualitv is being ehallenged by the crippling>
size of government and the wasteful habits of its many bureaucracies. He has a personal desire to live in a world that permits a maximized synergistic and symbiotic relationship to exist between the individual and society. Using his poliheal and mathematical skills he proposed to trim the size of the government, and deficit spending, and discontinue special interest subsidies. In order to make the world more peaeeful he sees the need to cut military spending, discourage military intervention, and create voluntarily funded diplomatic scholarships for students willing to study foreign languages and cultures on location overseas. He will work toward reducing involuntarily paid ineome taxes to zero, replacing them with a voluntary tax and user fee system. Meanwhile, he will make the present system more directly responsive to the individual taxpayer's desires by allowing eaeh person to designate areas wherc they want 50 percent of their tax money - pent (such as social services for the elderly, education, environmental protection, OHA, etc.). Then specific categories will be designated where the other 50 percent of their tax money cannot be spent (such as tobacco subsidies, weapons research, government programs better handled by private industry, and so on). Roger Taylor is a strong supporter of personal sovereignty and he supports the right of Native Hawaiians to have access to their native lands People of Hawaiian extra tion shoulri have the right to use their native land for housing and for other eeonomie benefit.
2nd Congressional Dist. (Neighbor islands) LIoyd Jeffrey Mallan (L)
The most pressing issues facing the Hawaiian community in the next five years are the same issues facing Hawaiians since 1893, when the United States government, under President McKinley, seized the Sovereign
Kingdom of Hawai'i: the erosion of Hawaiian eulture, religion and removal of lands. The promises made to the Hawaiian people after Annexation have been bountiful, but delivery on those promises by government has been sparse. The Hawai'i State government seems to have no compunction about trading ceded lands for Campbell Estate lands to build a geothermal plant, in spite of protests of many Hawaiians who see building such wells as a disgrace to Pele and the re!igious rights and feelings of the Hawaiians. Little consideration is given to sites of Hawaiian buria! grounds in the way of freeways, hotels or whatever is deemed progress. Thefederalgovernment doesn't mind planting military bases and housing wherever it wants, while disregarding the burgeoning homeless situation. In short, what we see is forced growth, lowerincomes, fewer jobs and higher rents, along with the continued alienahon and disenfranchisement of the Hawaiian people. As a congressman, I would demand that all Hawaiian Homelands be returned to their rightful owners with all due speed. If bureaucracy eontinues I would support the complete sovereignty of Hawai'i and the growing Hawai'i nationhood movement. If sovereignty would mean secession from the United States, I would support that too. In that way, the Hawaiian people would decide what should be done with their own lands and culture. Another solution would be to allow ceded and occupied Hawaiian lands to be sold on the open market, while native Hawaiians would make the first bid. Also, Hawaiians with proper title to the lands would have their properties returned. The price of the land would likely become more affordable because if government released lands they now hold it would be less expensive because of the "law of supply and demand." As a congressman, I would take all measures necessary to protect the 'aina, property, religious and civil rights of all Hawaiians. Fishing rights must not eonhnue to be given to private interests or the state to build parks for tourists or the public at large such has been done at South Point in Ka'u. The military must stop using Kaho'olawe as a bombing site and return the land to the indigenous people. With the return of the landjustcompensation must be made to restore the 'aina to its natural habitat. I believe similar measures should be taken with the other islands in the South Pacific, whieh the United States government has destroyed. I do not endorse the storage of nuclear waste, Agent Orange and poison ehemieal weapons at Johnston Atoll. Johnston Atoll is not as remote as people think. It is in the middle of changing currents whieh feed the north and south Pacific. America and Hawai'i must consider policies at the bottom of their heritages: bonding, not bondage, inclusion, not exclusion. America must reaffirm the meaning of its constitution and be a beaeon of light in the world.
Patsy T. Mink (D)
It is heartening to witness OHA's growing presence in our community, its eommitment to the betterment of the Hawaiian race, and the increasing role of OHA in our political process. I believe my record
in public service has continually demonstrated a eoneem for the issues most dear to Native Hawaiians, including the return of Kaho'olawe, saving the rain forests of the Big Island and the designation of threatened ancient Hawaiian sites as National Historic Parks. The most pressing issue facing Natfve Hawaiians today, however, is the full and lawful administration of the Hawaiian Homestead Act and a more vigorous provision of homes and homesites to the people. Related to this situation, I have been investigating the legality and possibility of extending what is now a seven-year suspension of loeal real estate taxes assessed on any new occupant's houselot from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. As Ka Wai Ola O OHA readers know, the annual rent for a houselot on homestead lands is $ 1 a year. In other words, the counties accept the State's jurisdiction that these lands are made available to Native Hawaiians and carried on the books within completely different financial parameters than normal, to conform to the Act's intent. It is upon this principle that I believe there is room to seek permanent relief from loeal real estate taxes for Hawaiians, since the homesites are rented at $1 a year not just for the first seven years, but throughout the period of occupancy by a qualified family. Taken to its logical conclusion then, Native Hawaiian families would pay only that portion of their real estate taxes that apply to improvements to the land, that is the home and other structures built on the land, and not any assessment on the land itself. Obviously the federal, state and county governments have overlooked the logic of this issue, as they have failed to conscientiously pursue the so many other specific goals and intents of the Act. As a member of Congress I fully intend to investigate the above matter further and to eall upon all concerned agencies as well as OHA to achieve this just avenue of relief from a very significant expense for Hawaiian Homestead beneficiaries. Andy Poepoe (R)
My name is Andrew Keli'ikuniaupuni Poepoe, and I am the Republican nominee for Congress in Hawaii's second congressional district, whieh includes rural O'ahu and all neighbor islands. I am the son of the Reverend
Abraham Poaiki Poepoe and the grandson of the Reverend Henry Poepoe, long-time pastorof Kaumakapili Church. I was raised on the Big Island, and am a graduate of Kamehameha Schools. I received a BA from Yale University and an MBA from the University of Hawaii. I served in the Hawai'i House of Representatives from 1966 to 1978, and also served a term on the Honolulu City Council from 1978 to 1982. I believe that the greatest issue facing our Hawaiian community is the need to develop a sense of unity. We have been divided in the past, and our division has helped those opposed to fair treatment for Hawaiians. Our opponents have been able to point to us as being unable to solve continued page 18
Federal, State Candidate Profiles
U.S. House our own problems, and henee in need of a solution imposed from above. 1 do not agree with this point of view, and am confident that the Hawaiian community ean solve its problems together. My family and my eampaigns have always had ho'oponopono as a eenterpiece of our management. 1 am a strong believer in the power of this ancient ritual to bring out all viewpoints, to right past wrongs and prevent future mistakes, and to unify the group towards a eommon solution. Only through working out our differences, recognizing the legitimacy of other viewpoints, and agreeing to compromise on short-term principles in order to achieve longterm goals ean Hawaiians truly advance. Throughout my life, l've spent a lot of time thinking about my status as a native Hawaiian and my status as an American citizen, and how these two conflict and complement eaeh other. I am proud to be an American because I have the freedom to pursue my own individual happiness. But I am even prouder to be a Hawaiian because my "Hawaiian-ness" gives me an obligation to be eoncerned about the happiness and well-being of the special and unique community of Hawai'i. It will be a great honor to serve as your Hawaiian representative in the United States Congress. You ean bet that I will carry that burden proudly in the halls of the U.S. Capitol, and will work hard to further the advancement of our people through any and all means available. Governor Fred Hemmings (R)
As a keiki o ka aina, my love for Hawai'i runs deep. Hawai'i is the only home I have ever known. In 1883 my great grandparents arrived in Hawai'i from Fortuqal to work on a sugar plantation. Three
generations later I grew up as one of six children in a Kaimuki family while my father worked two jobs and mv mother drove a school bus to pay for their children's education. As a world ehampion surfer and eanoe racer my love for the oeean evolved into a lifelong eoneem for Hawai'i's precious natural resources. After six years of proven leadership in the State Legislature, I offer the same sound management and sensib!e decision-making as a candidate for governor. I will first put a stop to the cronyism and corruption that for too long have infected state government. These entrenched practices are not just morally repugnant — they are a major reason our cost of living is the highest in the nation. Our other most crucial problems include housing, public education that hasfailed both students and teachers, a stagnating economy still based on tourism and the absence of leadership necessary to find the solutions. With Oahu's median priced homes selling for a staggering $380,000, decisive leadership is urgently needed. With thousands of Native Hawaiians still waiting for the homes they justly deserve, compassionate leadership is urgently needed. As governor, I will offer mueh more than the idle promises that have insulted you for the past four years. (When she served as Director of Hawaiian Homelands, my running mate Billie Beamer built more homes in four months than my opponent has built in four years.) I will provide the leadership to solve our housing problems by making more state land available for housing. I will remove the politics from housing by eliminating red tape, abolishing
the state Land Use Commission and returning decision-making powers to the counties. I will provide leadership and make real improvements in the quality of our children's education by encouraging smaller class sizes and decentralized school management. I will offer workable alternatives that will plaee students and teachers in dis-ruption-free classrooms, well-maintained and equipped with all the necessary books and materials our children need for a quality education. I will also encourage legislation that will provide teachers with the professional salaries they deserve. I will eliminate the four percent tax on food and medical care. The people shouldn't be taxed for being hungry or sick. More than just a leader, I am a risk-taker who is not afraid to take a stand. 1 proved it by standing up for $125 tax rebates and by exposing problems in the state judiciary that resulted in convictions of powerful state employees. I will prove it as governor by bringing integrity, honesty and accountability back to state government and by providing a state administration that is responsive to the needs of the people. Peggy Ha'o Ross (N) James Kimmel (N) Joint statement
The most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years is unification. 1920 — "Native Hawaiian" is defined in the Hawaiian Home Lands Act of 1920. 1958 — Hawai'i Statehood has a compact with the Federal (U.S. Congress) government as trustee to the HHL Act of 1920. 1970 — The HHL Act of 1920 became apparently an indignation and embarrassment to the state and federal governments since the "Spiritual Renaissance" started by the "Hawaiians." 1980 — OHA was created (Con-Con) in spite of opposition, with the "front man"and presently the Governor, John Waihe'e. 1987-1990 — The SCHHA has the initiative plan that meets all the qualifications for the Hawaiians as a whole. SCHHA qualifies as: — The legal heir descendants of the race in recognition by theU.S. CongressionalHHLActof 1920, prior to 1778, according to its definition of "Native Hawaiians." — legitimate heirs to the land entitlements of the HHLands Act 1920, 5(f) ceded lands and others; and, as a nation, absolute title to the Hawaiian Archipelago. — proven by their continuous long suffering to attain and maintain their rights under the Department of Hawaiian Homes Land and the 50th state government for the total of 70 years. — "Sovereign" — the legitimate consanguinity remnant survivors of the indigenous race of Hawai'i, subjugating their right as masters of their free-will ehoiee for sovereignty and independence or remain in bondage (slavery) under the present system as since 1893. OHA with its limited authority is the "bowl" to wash the hands of "Pontius Filate." OHA was to be the advocate for the Hawaiian people . . . that's what we thought. lnstead, OHA has inherited the right and privileges of the federal and state government to legally and professionally steal, lie, cheat, conspire and
politically prostitute for a meager fee. Duplication and competing for funds and jurisdiction between OHA and DHHL has caused a pendulum of confusion abbreviating the objective to reaching the inevitable goal . . . unification. We the people of Hawai'i have had a long season of experimenting with colonialism and statehood. We have tasted their fruits, some good and some bad. 1 believe that it is time for us to re-examine our desire to be a state and the benefits and detriments of statehood, and seriously consider sovereign nationhood in the immediate next two years. We the Hawaiian people, have taken the ehallenge through many doors to solving our problems, needs and concerns, and in the course of these trials and tribulations, we have tested our limits. It is time to tear down the walls that have separated us from eaeh other and take that bold initiative (direction ) of unification as a nation of Hawai'i, seceding and renewing treaties with the U.S.A. and other nations of the world. This has to do with all nations residing in Hawai'i as well. We the people of Hawai'i, the crossroad in the Pacific of all races, colors and creeds, ean pull it off . . . because we the Hawaiian people have the key of aloha to do it with. We ean have the U.S. military stationed in Hawai'i under renewed treaty with the United Nations as the overseer. As your governor, Peggy Ha'o Ross and James Kimmel as the Lt. Governor, the will of the people will be done. Triaka-Don Smith (L)
Since political issues are discussed most often, I'd like todigress on this occasion and ask you to consider what I believe to be of equal importance, spiritual balance in government. For Native Hawaiians, it
may be of critical importance. It's generally acknowledgpd worldwide that Hawaiians, as a people, are gentle, friendly and. loving. We describe this attitude as the aloha spirit, a unique gift to the world. It is a spiritual power whieh has great potential for bringing love, peaee and harmony to the entire planet. As the Libertarian candidate for governor, I propose to help produce the conditions to advance this cause. First, we must create a government here whieh is completely moral and ethical, and whieh is constitutionally bound to use moral means only in striving for moral ends. This will draw worldwide attention. We have comprised a list of 13 moral principles and nine ethical principles on whieh to base our administration, the leading earmarks being honesty and openness. Through balancing power among all people and all interests, this government will resolve problems through win-win solutions. Beyond this, I submit to you that governmental policy should reflect the universal law of cause-and-effect and the truth of the creative life force. For example, we should acknowledge that Kilauea Volcano is a sacred area and protect it. Likewise, these islands of the "breath of life" are not to be bombed (Kaho'olawe), nor are they to hide weapons of great destruction and death, for all these thinqs challenge the laws of the creative life force and pose karmic threats as the universal/nature consciousness plays out its role in reaction. We must protect the land, not abuse it, lest we be abused. There are other spiritualconsiderations, too, including the protection of hciaus, burial sites and other particularly sacred places whieh ean be reflected in administration policy. The Office of the Governor ean exercise great influence in bringing the truth of spirit forward to halanee the materiacontinued page 19
State Candidate Profiles
Governor listic interests whieh have run rampant in Hawai'i. With our kind of moral and ethical government, the aloha spirit will not only bring halanee to the imhalanee we have long been suffering from, it will emerge to touch the world. We would be happy to send you a copy of our moral and ethical principles. Phone 239-8077. *John Waihee (D)
Aloha! We are living in exciting times — a time of great opportunity and change. As a people, we have proven our ability to survive, to flourish, to create, to teach. We will need all of our skills to meet the challenges before us.
Part of the challenge is to take advantage of opportunities, and to create opportunities. That is what I have strived to do as your governor. Opportunities like: • Making sure Hawaiian Home Lands'operating expenses are paid from general funds, not HHL. revenues, making it possible to redirect $3-$4 million a year; • Making more money available to HHL than ever before to put it back on track with the tremendous backlog of infrastructure needs, making it possible for HHL to return to the business of providing homesteads and homes — 450 by the end of this year, another 750 by 1992. • Creating the Community Based Enterprise Development Program, to encourage locallybased, people-oriented enterprises, with owners who are as interested in developing communities as they are in making profits; • Creating Project HOPE, to ensure that finaneial hardships do not bar future Hawaiian children from the promise of a college education; • Making it possible to expand the popular Hawaiian language immersion program, and an additional 900 students to take Hawaiian language — nearly twice the number than only three years ago; • With the community, establishing a burials eouneil, a process and a code for the care of future burial sites, to prevent the type of crisis management and intervention required at Honokahua; • Pressing forward on the elaim for Kaho'olawe, a elaim that is about to bear fruit as a federal commission to determine the conditions of return (not if, but how!) — thanks to the stewardship of the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana, and the efforts of congressional delegation; • Upholding our responsibilities as stewards of the land, keeping our waters elean, increasing our forest reserves, land banking, making it possible for the 'alala to make a comeback; • Working aggressively to settle with OHA on the controversy of ceded land revenues for an additional $7 million a year and millions in back payments, making it possible for OHA to become an equity partner in fulfilling the goals and needs of our people. The list is mueh longer; we have made giant strides together. There are many to be thanked. l'm sorry to say that my Republican opponent is not one of them. He saw fit to vote "No" on the funding or establishment of nearly all programs benefitting Hawaiians. More importantly, he introduced no proposals of his own. Something to consider. Especially since there still is mueh more to be done. All is possible if we ean meet the challenge of coming together, as institutions, and as a people. There is power in unity and history has proven,
where Hawaiians join together we are successful. This is crucial, not only for Hawaiians. All of us are members of a large community. What's happening in the Persian Gulf and at Johnston Island have very real, very immediate impacts on all of our lives — Hawaiian and non-Hawaiian. If we are to control our future, we need to exercise leadership in the world around us. Someone asked, "How does it feel to be the first elected Hawaiian Governor?" 1 feel exhilarated and excited at the successes and challenges; and frustration at the not-quite-yets. There is a sense of profound humility at the responsibility you have given me; and quiet pride in what we ean do together. Mahalo. And Imua! Lt. Governor Billie Beamer (R)
OHA and DHHL must act in the best interest of the beneficiaries not the state's. Main issues: • betrayed by the ceced lands agreement, • criminal four-year performance of Hawaiian Homes Commission,
• nawanan congress to aeveiop aetaus tor a Hawaiian land sovereignty proposition through forums, seminars, workshops, and plebiscites. The primary charge of any fiduciary is accountable financial reporting. For the past decadg we have not received any detailed program schedules of expenditures, staff and performance reporting. This requirement from the OHA trustees or the Hawaiian Homes Commissioners is mandatory. The incomplete or glossed over reports from OHA (when received) and DHHL are just public relations self-justifications. Alu Like with its millions of federal and state funds has never submitted a public accounting. As of 1989, 300,000-plus acres are missing. We cannot eonhnue to accept kapulu books whieh veil purposes, land usage and expenditures. The agreement between OHA and the state must not be ratified until a detailed accounting of the 300,000-plus acres is accomplished. Atregular intervals, an appointed body representing different Hawaiian organizations must review the progress of the audit before the final result is submitted for acceptance on the usual "take it or leave it ultimatum." A cash settlement should not be accepted until the state submits a ledger of all revenuescollected from the use of land and sea since the compact of the Admissions Act of 1959. Then the final conditions of the agreement must first be reported to the public, specifically the OHA members, for review and endorsement before it is submitted for legislative approval. A land accounting for DHHL must be undertaken to determine the remaining estate inventory. Tax records as of September 1990 reveal only 182,188 acres. What happened to the other 7,000 acres? Another question is why so mueh of the moneys is being invested by DHHL and OHA, when the need is now. For whose benefit are these investments, $29 million from DHHL and $5 or $6 million(?) from OHA? The objective for passage of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act was the fact that of the 39,260 population of Hawaiians in 1919, only 1,000 were listed as property owners. But less than 4,000 have received improved lands since 1920. I strenuously object to the awarding of DHHL lands to wealthy landowners as Bishop Trustee Pinky Thompson who was recently awarded
Waimea Ranch Lands. I do not deny his right to be on the list, but those who already have the means for subsistence should be bypassed or voluntarily eliminate themselves until the Hawaiians without land have received a parcel. Thirty-four thousand petitioners said stop fussing with the act and build homes for the people. The governor built 78 in the last four years. S.B. 3236 and Act 75 introduced by Akaka and lnouye, our congressional representatives, will dismantle the HHCA. Beware Hawaiians. Joint workshops, seminars, drafting sessions of models to implement sovereignty on Hawaiian Lands and plebiscites must be conducted by OHA. OHA is only authorized to act as a conduit representing the people's wishes. It is not an executive authority. It is time for a change. *Ben Cayetano (D)
Governor John Waihee describes his relationship with Ben Cayetano as "the most successful GovernorLieutenant Governor relationship inHawai'i's history." Cayetano's 16-year record shows him to be
an aggressive ana mnovative leaūer. rlis aeeomplishments include: A-Plus program. Called "the father of the APlus Program" by the Honolulu Advertiser, Cayetano led the establishment of the nationally renowned after-school program in just seven months. Last spring, it served 15,500 children in 170 schools statewide. Between 20,000 and 24,000 are expected this fall. A-Plus parentsgave the program 99.3 percent approval rating for high quality. Election reform. Established the new "Wikiwiki" mail registration system, introduced electronic voting in Hawai'i, and spearheaded the dnve whieh reversed Hawai'i's 10-year voter registration decline. Heptachlor. Chaired the Senate committee whieh investigated the 1982 heptachlor eontamination of Hawai'i's milk supply and brought reforms in pesticide use and milk production. Manoa Finance. Led the Senate committee whieh negotiated the successful payback for depositors — mostly senior citizens — caught in the collapse of Manoa Finance. High Tech. Authored the law establishing the Pacific Center for High Technology Research at UH to develop Hawaii's high tech industry. High priority issues for Hawaiians. Hawaiians must be given the resources and freedom to decide their own future. Education is the most important tool for instilling pride in one's past and an understanding of one's heritage. Education programs focused on the special needs of Hawaiians should be a high priority program. Other high priority issues for the future. Affordable housing and rentals, educationreform, environment, and the economy. Amelia Oy Lew Fritts (L)
I never had the blessing of being Hawaiian by birth, but my daughter is lucky enough to be a "keiki o ka 'aina" (although not ethnicallv Hawaiian). Nevertheless, 1 recall how easy it used to be to understand why
those of us who were transplants from elsewhere could expect to be joyfully.received and eventually accepted as kamaainas due to the openheartedcontinued page 20
State Candidate Profiles
Lt. Governor ness of the Hawaiian people. Sadly, now the paradox is that (since statehood) many of those Native Hawaiians who have risen to levels of political power and influence appear to have deserted their heritage. Instead they think and act more in line with the worst of mainland Amenean cultural values and less with the best that are Hawaiian. These persons should re-evalu-ate their motives. It seems to me there is a faint eeho here from the pages of the dark days of Hawaiian history going back to when the missionaries took over. Since then the decline has continued unabated. Is it any wonder, then, that most Native Hawaiians cannot shake off the chains of their identity crisis? Yes, I think the federal government should immediately return all ceded lands back to the Hawaiian people — including the island of Kaho'olawe. The Hawaiian Homes Act should not be tampered with in any way but enforced. State government ought to pay the Hawaiians for revenues collected for use of their land and also allow the Hawaiian people to pursue justice from government in the courts. Native practices, such as healing, and protection for religious and sacred areas should be respected. Most important — a move toward sovereignty is the right way to go. Actuallv there would be little need for the existenee of an agency such as the Office of Hawaiian Affairs if all the preceding transpired. Hawaiians, as independent landed persons, could eaeh decide for themselves what they want their futures to be. In fact. by themselves thev have the power to change conditions if, as a group, they would permit their good sense to acknowledge their right to self-government. Certainly the most important issue for the Native Hawaiian in the next five years (preferably less) would be to restore pride and awaken the true spirit of aloha in the hearts of the Hawaiian people. That is their nature, their heritage. End their despair. Restore their dignity. let the people be free and their needs met. A Libertarian governor and lieutenant governor will lead all Hawaiians (and Hawaiians at heart) in that direction. Our plan for a moral and ethical
government, that favors no group over another group, will show the way to accomplish this. Then the land will prosper again because the leadership is upright. State Senate Sen. Dist. 5 (W. Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i) Jan Dapitan (D)
In my mind, the most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years is the credibility of OHA with both the Native Hawaiians, and the community that is Hawai'i. Native Hawaiians
need to know that there is communication, aecountability, and justice in approaching the issues of reparations, education, health, housing, and Kaho'olawe. They need to know that action will be taken immediately to work on solutions and programs for the indigenous people of this state. As a state senator, I would devote time and energy to work with people, seek solutions, and bring government, community, and OHA together to solve problems. *Rick Reed (R)
I think the most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years hasn't changed in the past 70 years: putting Native Hawaiians on their land. As the former editor/Dublisher of the
Valley Isle newspaper, I interviewed countless people whose grandfather or mother and father or husband or wife had died while on the waiting list for land. The problem continues, and it's a disgrace. In the past legislative session, I voted against the bill that would add a "purpose clause" to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. I was responding to Native Hawaiians who argued persuasively that the federal and state governments should instead simply begin living up to the terms of the act and begin putting Hawaiians on their land. Government hasn't failed the Hawaiian people for laek of a purpose clause. Government has failed the Hawaiian people for laek of sincerity, laek of will, laek of aloha. If re-elected, I will eonhnue to use all the power of the office to force government to begin living up to the terms of the act. The land is already there. The Native Hawaiian is expected to acquire financing and build his own home. All the state has to do is provide the infrastructure. I will continue to pressure government to do right by the Hawaiian people in all regards. Incidentally, I have actively sought to stop the bombing of Kaho'olawe for the past 13 years. Sen. Dist. 6 (Waipahu, Mililani) Randy Iwase (D)
There are many important issues facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years including sovereignty, the return of Kaho'olawe, reparations, and entitlement. However, in order to achieve any degree of
success in addressing these issues, it is critical that the Hawaiian community remain united. Unfortunately, this has not always been true over the past several years. Internal dissension, disagreements over priorities, and constant challenges to those who must provide leadership only serve to weaken the cause, dissipate energy, and blur focus on what must be done in order to succeed. The fate of issues important to and directly affecting the Hawaiian community lies in the hand of Hawaiians. You must provide the energy and the leadership, and this ean only be achieved if there is unity and consensus within the Hawaiian community. As a person born and raised in Hawai'i, you ean be assured that my heart is with you, and my offer of assistance is always extended. Your cause is a just one, and together, we ean succeed in reaching our eommon goals. Bill Sullivan (R) No statement was received from candidate Sen. Dist. 7 (Wahiawa, Kahuku) *Gerald T. Hagino (D) Jack Magann (R) No statements were received from candidates Sen. Dist. 8 (Laie, Kane'ohe) *Mike McCartney (D)
Mike McCartney was born and raised in Kahalu'u and educated in our public schools. He is married to Darlene Yoshioka and has one son, Bricen. Mike was first elected to the state Senate in 1988. During
his first term, he has earned the trust and respect of his colleagues by serving as the chairman of the Government Operations Committee and vice chairman of the Education Committee. Mike's priorities are: Hawaiian Issues: Mike supports giving indigenous Hawaiians equal rights afforded to Native Americans by the U.S. government. He supports greater self-deter-mination and self-governance for all Native Hawaiians. He also believes that the federal and state governments must play a more active role in resolving concerns and problems facing Hawaiian Home Lands and ceded land issues. Education: Mike is committed to improving the quality of our educational system by supporting the restructuring and decentralization of the DOE to give loeal schools greater flexibility and autonomy : allocating additional resources to the schools to help them meet their needs. He is an advocate for lowering class sizes and supports School Com-munity-Based Management Environment: He authored legislation that will protect and preserve Kaneohe Bay and helped to save the Heeia Wetlands from development. Mike is committed to maintaining the beauty and rural character of Windward O'ahu. He also authored the county land use initiative bill and passed it out of his committee. Housing: Mike co-sponsored legislation to restrictforeign ownership of residential property and introduced anti-speculation measures. He believes that <'reater incentives to private industry to promote the construction of more affordable housing must be provided. Traffic: Mike supports the widening of Kahekili Highway and long-term alternatives, such as mass trancontinued page 21
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State Senate Sen. Dist. 8 sit, to relieve Hawai'i's transportation probIems. Taxes: Mike introduced a comprehensive long-term ineome tax relief package last session and supported the transfer of the hotel room tax to the counties. His bill to increase the food tax credit was enacted into law, and he will continue to work towards providing long term tax relief for Hawai'i residents. The past two years have been rewarding, exciting and challenging for Mike. He has learned a lot and now the foundation is there for him to do even more. He is proud of his record as a freshman senator and his commitment to be an advocate for our community. Gary Walker (R) The most important issue facing the Native Hawaiian people is the disastrous state of the Hawaiian Home Lands. Nearly 21,000 eligible Hawaiians have been shuffled out of sight onto an apparently perpetual waiting list. Tragically, for some a lifetime of waiting wasn't enough. Hawaii's all-powerful Democratic maehine has been in complete control of the government for 30 years. They have had time and opportunity to implement any action they have wanted to. In the matter of Hawaiian Home Lands, Hawaiians are not the victims of bad luek or the slow wheels of bureaucracy. They are casualties of deliberate contempt. Control of land, power and money is the foundation of strength for the democratic maehine, and Native Hawaiians don't fit into their plans. It is time to abandon the Democrat's greedy sinking ship and vote for men and women who care. The current administration has spent over a billion dollars of surplus money, with hundreds of millions allegedly available for affordable housing, but in four years only 127 houses have been placed on the Hawaiian's land. They have treacherously abandoned their legal commitment to provide revenue from ceded Hawaiian lands. Incredibly, by honoring this commitment we would also be helping everybody in Hawai'i. If Hawaiians were given their rightful lands it would solve the housing shortage by recirculating their
current residences back into the open market. Republicans ean stand proud. Gary Walker is prepared to do everything in his power to honor the commitment to Hawaiians. Gary cares deeply about the land, but even more, he cares about Hawaii's people. He will make sure that the state does what they should have done a generation ago — build homes on Hawaiian Homes Lands for Hawaiians. It's the right thing to do and it's good for everybody. Sen. Dist. 24 (Nanakuli, N. Kaua'i) Miehael "Mike" J. Mixell (R)
The question is, how ean Hawaiians get settled on their land, get fair reimbursement for their ceded lands, and have their sovereign rights that are guaranteed in the 1920 Congressional Act? As an elected senator, I will work toward
accomplishing the above goals. I will be in the front line with you and will not sidestep or back off from what are right, fair, and legal obligations of the State of Hawai'i. I will take whatever legal means are needed to accomplish these goals. The first thing I will do is to ask for an investigation of the organizations that represent the Hawaiian people to see that they are doing their legal duties and responsibilities to the
Hawaiian people. The first to be Iooked at will be the Hawaiian Homelands Commission. No stone will be left unturned and all legal options will be open. Three things I promise to my district are: 1. An office in my district with an open door; 2. Books for all students in our schools; 3. Fair and legal representation of the Hawaiian people. After four years in office, they will say, "Mike Mixell worked for the interests and preservation of the culture and rights of the Hawaiian people." *James Aki (D) No statement was received from candidate State House Rep. Dist. 1 (Ka'u, Puna, Keaukaha) Stewart Waterhouse (R)
Hawaiians and nonHawaiians alike face a severe housing crisis. Rent and mortgage payments are so high the average family cannot afford shelter. Hawaiian people in particular find the problem to be disDroportionally worse
because of extreme delays in the apportionment continued page 22
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 1 of Homelands. Additionally, since land under the proposed house on homelands is owned by the department of Hawaiian Homelands rather than by the homesteader, financing is next to impossible. I will work to expedite placement of those waiting and change financing rules to make financing easier. I intend to appoint Palikapu Dedman legislative assistant. Pali is a Hawaiian activist from Ka'u and founder of the Pele Defense Fund. *Jerry Chang (D) No statement was received from candidate Tanya Lee (N) No statement was received from candidate Rep. Dist. 5 (Kailua-Kona, S. Kona) *Virginia Isbell (D) Mark R. Spengler (R) No statements were received from candidates Rep. Dist. 6 (N. Kona, Kohala, E. Maui) Eddie Akana (D) *Mike 0'Kieffe (R) No statements were received from candidates Rep. Dist. 7 (Wailea, Upcountry Maui, Paia) Paul Fagan (R) David Morihara (D) No statements were received from candidates Rep. Dist. 9 (Waihee, Lahaina, Kihei) Edmund K. Alo (R) *Joseph M. Souki (D) No statements were received from candidates
Rep. Dist. 11 (Crestview, Mililani) *Daniel J. Kihano (D)
The most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA, at this time, is the building of more homes for Native Hawaiians. To this end, 1 believe that more funds need to be provided to assist the Native Hawaiians.
Ron S. Arakaki (R) No statement was received from candidate Rep. Dist.l2 (Mililani, Wheeler, Schofield Barracks) Karen Georgiev (R)
My decision to beeome a candidate for the State House of Representatives, (District 12, Mililani, Wheeler, Schofield), is inspired by a sincere desire to serve as part of the solution to the many problems facing our community and state.
While growmg up here īn Hawai ī, I have witnessed a discouraging laek of courage, creativity, and resolve on the part of our political leadership. Their abdication of responsibility and commitment to the people of Hawai'i has resulted in the breaking up of our families as our young people are forced to leave their island home. I understand the frustration of many who believe that few positive changes ean occur with a government that has proven itself tO be inefficient,
wasteful, and ineffective. However, having been born legally blind, 1 am familiar with the experience of facing challenges, and I know that anything ean be achieved through hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance. Native Hawaiians also have a long and proud history of overcoming challenges and adversity. One of today's greatest obstacles to overcome is a laek of eeonomie and educational opportunity. As a legislator, I would fight for Hawaiian homestead lands in order to encourage self-sufficiency and the strengthening of the family. In addition, educational programs must be established whieh target the needs of the native Hawaiian community in areas ranging from literacy training to university scholarships. In addition, I will work diligently toward the establishment of a mueh needed, and long overdue fixed rail mass transit system. As with many issues, our politicians have been more interested in the politics of ideas, rather than merit. We voters must make it clear that such attitudes are unacceptable. I will also fight to open more land for affordable housing. These projects must be well-planned developments that consider all pertinent factors such as eeonomie feasibility, the availability of water and other resources, and environmental impact. Another vitally important matter is the improvement of our public education system. In order to effectively educate our children, we must decentralize authority and allow individual schools, principals, teachers, and parents to participate in decision making. It must be stressed, however, that with this authority comes tremendous responsibility for all of us to take an active role in the education and future of our young people. Needless to say, there are dozens more issues whieh our leaders have failed to address over the continued page 23
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State House Rep. Dist 12 years. What is most disturbing is that, given our many problems, we still pay one of the highest tax rates in the nation. lt is time to demand our money's worth. As residents of Hawai'i, we must stand together to demand an end to the era of "go along and get along politics," and replace it with government that is responsive to the needs of the people. My candidacy offers a ehoiee between the failed policies of the past and real hope for the future. *Samuel S.H. Lee (D)
1 am a firm believer in education and have strong faith in our public schools. All four of my children have attended or are attending loeal schools. Tom and Andrew are at Mililani High School. We need more class-
rooms and a smaller teacher-student ratio. For my district, I will seek appropriations for the Mililani Mauka Elementary School and the Mililani Performing Arts Center. I will eonhnue to be active in the PTSA and the Mililani Teen Support Organization to help our youth both in and out of school. Affordable housing is a eoneem for all of us. 1 shall encourage the state to continue the affordable projects in Kapolei and elsewhere. But I will seek legislation and funds for the construction of affordable rental apartments, preferably in the urban core. I am pleased that we made a decision for mass transit. It is now time to address elderly care as a priority. We need to increase the number of longterm beds and to assist family caregivers. Every effort must be made to enable to remain in their own homes. Education and housing are the most important ssues facing Native Hawaiians. The top priority is ro implement the Hawaiian Homelands Act. I support all measures, particularly appropriations, to settle Native Hawaiians on their land. Like everyone else. Native Hawaiians need a good education to develop their potential and to prepare for good jobs 1 support special educational programs for Native Hawaiians, including the increasing cooperation of Kamehameha Schools and the Department of Education. Rep. Dist. 14 (North Shore, Kahuku) Bernadette Franks-Ongoy (R) Alex Santiago (D) No statements were received from candidates Rep. Dist. 16 (Haiku, Heeia, Kaneohe) Eugene T. Carson (R)
1. Implementation of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act in deed and not with empty words, promises and paper awards. 2. OHA must grow and develop plans and programs in support of the Hawaiian people.
OHA must seek redress of the historic wrongs and
omissions that have taken plaee. Seventy years of indolence on the part of those responsible seems to be a major reason for the failure of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to develop needed homesteads. Now money appears to make a solution out of reach. This need not be. OHA Trustee Rod Burgess has suggested a possible solution to the money problem. The United States military should undertake as a "training project" development of the infrastructure of Hawaiian Home Lands. The military is quick enough to use Kaho'olawe as a "needed" training area . . . therefore they should be willing to undertake a training project that will benefit the Hawaiian people so that homes ean be built on their land. If you use someone's property or land you should expect to give fair compensation for the use you have enjoyed and/or continue to enjoy. Therefore, the U.S. military should pay for use of the trust lands the same as they are required to compensate other land owners when they use their property. I support the suggestions of Mr. Burgess and believe they should be fully explored and pursued with relentless determination. OHA is for the Hawaiian people. The requirements set forth in the Admissions Act, conveniently ignored by every administration during the past 30 years, were written with clarity. I would support absolute adherence to enforcement of the Admissions Act or any amendments to it that would be of benefit to the Hawaiian people. The trust fund required by the Admissions Act appears to have been "conveniently" overlooked. I have been told, by Hawaiians whom Iconsider to be well-informed, that the arrangement with the State of Hawai'i was unilateral and arbitraryfis well as inaccurate. They have told me, and I agree, that there must be an accurate inventory of ceded lands; a true accounting for the past 30 years. How mueh land has been sold and to whom? The monetary determinations seem hardly fair when one considers the tremendous ineome generated at the State airports and at other ceded lands ... 1 wjDuld fight for a proper and accurate accounting to determine what belongs to the Hawaiian people. 1 would strongly support use of military engineer units to aid in developing infrastructure of the Hawaiian Homes Lands and the assistance of OHA by having them invest OHA funds in the people to construct affordable homes. 1 eame here from the mainland. You made me weleome with aloha. Where I grew up it was customary to name your house. Mother, a teacher, selected the name "ALOHA" for our home. 1 eannot express myself better than did my mother.
*Terrance W.H. Tom (D)
It is very difficult to discuss the most important issue facing native Hawaiians and OHA because there are numerous concerns and problems whieh must be addressed affecting our Hawaiian people who constitute approxi-
mately ^UVo ot nawau s population. Untortunately, our Hawaiian population has over-populated our prisons, welfare system, and school dropouts. Issues such as: a better education, more jobs, better housing, and a more effective delivery of health services, for our Hawaiian people, must be immediately addressed if we are to meet the needs of one-fifth of our State's population. Aithough eaeh area of eoneem constitutes an issue in itself, when considered together, it is clear that the primary issue is improving the quality of life of our native Hawaiians. For example, in the area of higher education, our native Hawaiians have the highest attrition rate consisting of dismissals, probations and dropouts in our University system, with a 5% enrollment at the University of Hawai'i. In the area of human services, of the approximate 14,000 adults receiving AFDC benefits, one of every three, or 30%, are Hawaiians. Nineteen percent of those receiving state general assistance are Hawaiians. Statistics do not lie. It is incumbent on all of us, Hawaiians and non-Hawaiians, to work together to ensure a quality of life that would result in more housing, quality education, a better delivery of health services and meaningful jobs for our Hawaiian people. I am committed to do my part in this democratic process to achieve this very essential and worthwhile goal. Although I am not Hawaiian, I think that I ean understand and emphathize with feelings of rejection, frustration and some hostility expressed by our Hawaiian people. I have been blind from birth, continued page 24
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist 16 and as a result of my handicap, I, too, had to face negative attitudes, misunderstandings and rejections by those unlike myself. However, despite my handicap, I have had to work even harder to achieve my goals in life and to make something of myself. This same attitude of perseverance and positive thinking must also exist in the minds and hearts of our Hawaiian population if their quality of life is going to improve. Our Hawaiian people must first develop a more confident self-image, selfesteem, and positive attitude about themselves. A change in attitude will result in a change in environment, learning, and ineome for our Hawaiian people. In addition to better programs and more education for our Hawaiian people, we must be eommitted in providing additional funding in our endeavors to improve the quality of life for our native Hawaiians. Therefore, I feel that by strengthening the attitudes and self-esteem of our Hawaiian people, and by providing adequate funding for programs to meet their many needs, we will ensure that the quality of life for eaeh and every Hawaiian individual will be met. Rep. Dist. 18 (Maunawili, Enchanted Lake) *Whitney T. Anderson (R)
I believe that one of the issues of most importance facing the Hawaiian community in the next five years is the resolution of the blood quantum question both for the beneficiaries of OHA and of the Hawaiian Homes Commission.
In reference to OHA there is a definite need to define and imp!ement a trust for Hawaiians of less than half native blood particularly in view of the funds that will be available to OHA under the ceded lands entitlennents legislation passed this year. Under existing law these new funds ean be
used only for Hawaiians of 50% or more blood quantum. Until legal clarification ean be made it will be difficult to administer many of the needed programs. I believe the other issue of most importance to the Hawaiian Community in the long range is the education of our Hawaiian children. I would hope that OHA could, by utilizing the additional fundsit will be receiving, establish programs in those schools where the SAT Scores show below-average achievement in reading and math skills and where there is a high enrollment of Hawaiian pupils. These programs should work intensively with the students who are having problems with reading and comprehension, written English and verbal communication in English. 1 also believe that programs should be instituted to work with preschool age children to prepare them for formal schooI entrance. If re-elected I would support OHA-generated legislation to resolve the question of trust beneficiaries and funding for State programs in remedial educational programs in conjunction with OHA and greater emphasis on courses in Hawaiian history at all grade levels. Devon Nekoba (D)
Hawaii's natural beauty makes it a special plaee. But that beauty is fragile and easily destroyed. We have seen unprecedented growth and development in Windward O'ahu. For Devon Nekoba, our precious
land and environment are of utmost eoneem. Kailua residents share that eoneem. Our eommunity opposes overdevelopment — luxury homes at Sandy Beach, golf courses in Maunawili Valley, commercial abuse of our beaches and offshore waters. Now we face even more unwanted proposals: a golf driving range at Kailua Drive-in and homes desecrating the slopes of Mount Olomana. Where will it end? Devon Nekoba shares these concerns and wants it to end now. You ean count on Devon Nekoba to work vigorously to protect
our land from destruction through overdevelopment. Housing prices have run away from the reach of our own people. A key reason is speculation by foreign investors. Overseas buyers are inflating housing prices to levels where young people are losing hope of ever owning a home in Hawai'i. Even for people who own homes, spiraling housing prices only mean skyrocketing real property taxes! Devon Nekoba will strive to keep Hawaii's people from being priced out of the housing market. He will work for a ban on foreign investors competing with Hawai'i residents for housing. For our Hawaiian people, no issue is more important than land. The 'aina nourished ancient Hawai'i. Respect for the land is the cornerstone of Hawaiian culture. Ceded lands, their revenues, and other land unjustly taken must be restored to the Hawaiian people. Devon Nekoba will work to achieve these goals. An effective voice for Kailua residents depends on having representative who will be heard by the Legislature's Democratic majority. As a member of the majority party, Devon Nekoba ean make our case effectively. And as he will be heard, our concerns will be heard in the Legislature. For vigorous, effective representation, please vote Devon Nekoba for state Representative. continued page 25
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 19 (Mokapu, Kailua) Cynthia Hiielen (R)
I'm running for state House of Representatives - 19th district (Kalaheo Hillside, Coconut Grove, Aikahi Park, Kaimalino, Kailua Bay Estates, Mokapu, Kainalu, Kuulei, Kalaheo Avenue and eountry Club Knolls).
The most important issue facing Native Hawaiians is land, land, land. It is critical that the state allocate necessary funds to put in the infrastructure on Hawaiian Home Lands. At the same time, I will support methods to permit homesteaders to get on the land now to make their own site improvements and recommend that the OHA share costs for some of the infrastructure. The most important issue facing OHA is reparations. Hawaiians are the last group to be eompensated for actions taken in the name of the federal government. As a state legislator, I will support resolutions or other state action to get the United States Congress to act. I've raised four children on the Windward side and returned to the University of Hawai'i to finish undergraduate work and get a law degree. I am an environmental and land use attorney. I helped the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana gain access to the island for religious, cultural and educational purposes. Through our efforts, Kaho'olawe was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. As a result of lengthy negotiation sessions, we succeeded in getting the military to remove bombs and shells from one-third of the Island. On those monthly accesses when I've gone with the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana, we have hiked over the island to the archaeological sites and documented the damage to the 'aina. Twice a year we meet in iong sessions to negotiate with the Navy to get expanded access for the 'Ohana, to critique the Navy's erosion control plans and to monitor the ordinance elean up. I support return of Kaho'olawe, and as your state legislator, will work toward that goal. Working with a coalition of churches, I won back half of the Hale Mohalu site in Pearl City for Hansen's disease and other residents. The support group now is working on design details for the residential project. My eoneem toward preserving the land is statewide. When developers wanted to construct a large condominium project at Kamoa Point on the island of Hawai'i, Boyce Brown and I represented a loeal group, the Friends of Kamoa Point, and succeeded in preserving that significant area. In addition, I've represented the Office of Hawaiian Affairs m cases before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. I have been and will continue to be a strong supporter of Hawaiian issues and will work with you in the State Legislature to implement your goals.
*Ed Bybee (D) No statement was received from candidate Rep. Dist. 20 (Lanikai, Keolu, Waimanalo) Jackie Young (D)
While housing, education and eeonomie self-sufficiency are clearly important issues facing Native Hawaiians, without good health social and eeonomie advances will be difficult. I believe that health education and
access to culturally appropriate forms of health care is most important. The unusually high ineidence of heart disease, diabetes, cancer among Native Hawaiians is alarming. When compared to other states in the nation, Hawai'i residents tend to live longer. Yet Native Hawaiians die at a younger age than any other ethnic group in Hawai'i. Intervention and prevention efforts must be increased and supported by our government. Access to health care is crucial. As a legislator I would work with OHA to develop strategies and legislation to address this health crisis among Native Hawaiians such as supporting increased funding for additional staff for the Office of Hawaiian Health and promotional efforts to encourage Native Hawaiian students to enter the health field. Eve Anderson (R) No statement was received from candidate Rep. Dist. 21 (Kalama, Hawaii Kai) *Dave Stegmaier (D)
The most important issue facing the Hawaiian community is ereignty/self-determina-tion. It is an issue that is very complex. There are many, many models that need to be evaluated. The various options and alternatives
must oe expiained to tne nawanan community so that a consensus on the best model ean be achieved. I would support legislation that would fund, define, and implement a process that would allow the Hawaiian community to reach consensus on this issue. There needs to be a strong education and outreach program so that the community ean be informed about why the issue is important, what are the ramifications, what are the various alternative, what has been the experience of other native Amehean groups, the benefits and pitfalls of the different models, etc. There would also need to be a component to work with the Hawaiian community to determine the best process to decide the sovereignty issue. There are many different deliberative models that need to be discussed: a "constitutional" convention with elected representatives, a referendum of the Hawaiian community, or a combination of the two. Developing a process that would allow a forum for all alternatives and opportunities to be discussed is critical to achieve the best result. The other important issue is integration and coordination of programs and services for Hawaiians. There are many different organizations providing programs and services for the Hawaiian community. Over the past two years, the legislature funded the Hawaiian Services Task Force to conduct a needs assessment and survey of services currently available. The ultimate objective is to identify the needs of the community, catalog existing services, and develop an integrated plan for all organizations to deliver services. This would allow organizations to focus on their strengths,
minimize overlap and competing services, foster cooperation between organizations, and deliver services that the community needs most. I supported the efforts of the task force in the past, and would support the implementation of its recommendations. I Charles Isaak (R) No statement was received from candidate Rep. Dist. 22 (Hawaii Kai, Aina Haina) *Fred Hirayama (D)
In response to your questionnaire 1 believe the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) should have the foresight and direction to utilize ceded land funds to benefit and improve the plight of all Native Hawaiians.
It is with this in mind that I wholeheartedly believe that the welfare of all Native Hawaiians would be best served by OHA providing funds to develop and implement programs with emphasis on education and elderly care. Programs I wish to see developed in the field of education would be to improve scholastic aptitude scores, encourage our young ones to obtain their high school diplomas and attend college. It is my firm belief that OHA must take a leading and eommitted role in upgrading the educational process for our keikis from early childhood to graduate studies. In essence, I wish to see programs whieh would enhanee and improve our keikis' abilities to receive a thorough and challenging education and thus make them more able to compete in our society. Secondly, OHA should provide additional programs to improve elderly care and construct these types of facilities for our kupuna. Already in exister,ce is one such facility — Lunalilo Home. I believe one is not enough. We need more facilities and programs to address elderly care. These measures would enable our kupuna to live longer and healthful lives. This is the direction I believe OHA should pursue with vigor and intent so that all the Native Hawaiian community may benefit. Gene Ward (R)
In my opinion, there are two priority issues facing the Hawaiian community: housing and self-sufficiency. Housing: The housing issue (basically a land issue) involves eaeh Hawaiian being eligible for a plot of
land, and a house. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has attempted to do this, but has not succeeded. If elected I would streamline the process of infrastructure and site development by more private sector involvement and more creative financing measures. There is no reason for a person to be on a waiting list for a Hawaiian homestead for 10 to20 years the way it is now. Eligibie homesteaders should be provided plots within a maximum of a five year period! Self-sufficiency: The dependency statistics of Hawaiians need to be reversed. More self-sufficiency projects, particularly entrepreneurial development endeavors need to be encouraged. If elected I would see to it that the present OHA Revolving Loan Fund is expanded, and if the federal government chooses to back out of the project, I would see to it that the State became incontinued page 26
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 22 volved in providing its funds. Secondly, entrepreneurship training, like that presently conducted by Alu Like needs to be streamlined and exanded to all of the islands to provide eeonomie self-sufficiency opportunities for Hawaiians. If elected, I would see to it that sufficient funds were available for Hawaiian eeonomie development, projects, particularly entrepreneurship development, to take priority. Summary: I have written a Ph.D. thesis comparing Hawaiian entreprenuers with Caucasian entrepreneurs and found that there were fundamentally few differences between the two groups. Hawaiians ean and do succeed in business, but the stereotype, even in the Hawaiian community, is that they eannot or should not be good entrepreneurs. 1 have also worked over 15 years with Dr. George Kanahele and various members of the Hawaiian community who have demonstrated that Hawaiians are in fact often smarter and quicker than others in Hawai'i. From Hawaiians and from my experience, I have learned that Hawaiian housing and Hawaiian businesses are the two areas that will make a difference in Hawai'i for the future of its original peoples. Rep. Dist. 23 (Waialae, Maunalani Heights) Ōaniel Dinell (D)
Our people. Our land. Our water. Our heritage. These are Hawai'i's treasures. I was born and raised in the district where 1 am seeking office. 1 am a product of the Hawai'i public schools. l've worked in the Legislature, in
Washington U.L. on Lapitol nill, īn remote villages in AIaska and in the booming metropolis of Tokyo, Japan. 1 have the energy and background to make a difference, but only with your kokua. The most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA is not a single issue, but structural reform. It is the need of Hawaiians to fully participate in the decision-making process at all levels of government and throughout our community. OHA's role must be to facilitate this process. OHA should be ready to take on forces whieh prevent this kind of participation and reform. OHA ean work with other organizations and truly become an advocate on behalf of Hawaiians throughout the state. OHA needs to provide focus and direction. As a state Representative, I will be committed to encourage, by leadership and by example, participation of Hawaiians in the decision making process. OHA's blueprint for entitlements is an important first step in redressing the wrongs done to Hawaiians. Further, we must stop thedesecration of Kaho'olawe today, not tomorrow. And finally, Hawaiian Homes must be put to the task and get those qualifying individuals and families off the waiting lists and onto the land. We must work to address those problems whieh continue to plague Hawaiians: the highest poverty rates; the poorest health; the highest prison populahon; social and cultural rejection in their own land; and low educational attainment to name just a few. Only profound and structural change will make a difference. Hawaiians need not, no should not, be estranged in their own land. Only with real commitment to changing the environment whieh perpetuates this situation will we make true pro-
gress. Mahalo for the opportunity to share my views. I look forward to working with you to make it happen. Barbara Marumoto (R)
OHA has an excellent opportunity to take a leadership role in obtaining Hawaiian Home Lands for Hawai'i's people. Housing is this state's number one problem and, ironically, it is a bigger problem for Hawaiians than almost any other ethnic qroup.
OHA should press for: 1) the awarding of all available HHL acreage, 2) state-installed infrastructure, 3) state guaranteed loans for individual site improvements, and 4) maximum rents for non-Hawaiian leases to help pay for infrastructure costs. The question of blood quantum must be settled; I see this as a Hawaiian question whieh must be decided "in house", i.e., byHawaiians themselves. Housing will remain a problem for more than five years, maybe more than 10 years. However, after that, let's hope that the problem will be solved. Rep. Dist. 24 (Kahala, Waikiki) Jane Tatibouet (R)
Land and housing are perhaps the two most important issues facing Native Hawaiians and the OHA in the next five years and beyond. I am very strongly committed to make all possible efforts to speed up the process whereby
lands held in trust for the Hawaiian people be put into their hands. The provisions of 'aloha 'aina had their origins in the Organic Act of 1901 whieh set aside some 230,000 acres as homesteads for the Hawaiians. My husband's step-grandfather, Dr. George Huddy, a half-Hawaiian, served in the Territorial Legislature from 1912-1916. In this position he worked hard to make secure the lands for the future generations. In present day Hawai'i our family continues the support of Native Hawaiian rights. My husband, as ehainnan of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, Hawai'i chapter, has made an continuing effort to accelerate the process of releasing these lands. The other major problem, the cost of housing itself, is now a statewide eoneem and one that must be addressed for the Native Hawaiian as well as for all the people of Hawai'i. For the native Hawaiians the cost to plaee a home on their land must be reasonable. Solutions ean be found both by introduction of new eonstruction technology, and by the use of a wider variety of efficient materials. In addition the state and county governments need to permit use of the functional, attractive, new styles of modular, prefab and/or manufactured homes as a viable and low-cost alternative to traditional construction. It is deplorable that many Native Hawaiians are being deprived of their most basic right— to live in a house on the lands held for them. If elected to the state Legislature, I would work to introduce legislation to force the appropriate authorities to speed up the process of parcelling out the lands. Regarding housing, I plan to find ways of both introducing the technology and at the same time seek enabling legislation to allow alternative forms of housing in our state.
Roger Moseley (D) No statement was received from candidate. Rep. Dist. 26 (Kaimuki, Kapahulu) *Les Ihara (D) No statement was received from candidate Steve Tataii (Kupono) (R)
'Aina and 'olelo are the two most important elements for the existence of any nation or indigenous people (natives of the land) anywhere in the world. In Hawai'i these two elements have practically been forced out of exis-
tence for its indigenous people. 'Aina('s meaning) is different byfarfrom itspure English translation. 'Aina has always meant makuahine (Mother God, or to most people "the mother land"). This meaning, whieh applied to sharing, caring, and growing in Hawai'i, gradually changed after Cook's arrival. After periods of abuse, it finally lost its true meaning and purpose. 'Olelo is just as important as 'aina and needs to be saved and revived. If you want to stand as a native of the land, and prove your ownership to the land ('Aina), you should be able to speak the language of the natives of that 'aina, 'olelo Hawai'i. 'Olelo is not just language; it is culture, history, and the way of life. It's the strength created by the kanaka (the people), the feelings inspired by the 'ohana (Hawaii's society) and by the people with Native blood. 'Aina ean still go to its original form. That is why it is important to Hawaii's native people, to be granted legal ownership of the 200,000 acres of land, whieh was passed through the legislative process of 1920, but never implemented. My kokua for the past 16 years with Native Hawaiians has been concentrated to bringthe two vital elements above back into reality. I've been a strong advocate of 'olelo Hawai'i. History shows that other nations have lost their identity and land, onee they've been forced not to speak their own mother language. I've participated in many rallies on Hawaiian rights issues with Hawaiian non-profit organizations. I'm advocating now, and hopefully at the Legislature, to make Hawaiian language a mandatory subject in as many grade levels as possible. Hawaiian ean easily be learned. I'm a Iiving example of that, and still working on it. My other efforts will be in land justifications for Native Hawaiians, and other plans to improve the living conditions of the communities where Native Hawaiians and other native inhabitants live. I'm planning to write bills to improve our kalo (taro patches), and bring back our na loko i'a (Hawaiian fish ponds), to save reef fish and produce more loeal food. If we don't get involved in politics of our 'aina, our living environment will go from bad to worse, and there will be no one to b!ame but ourselves. As you ean see, it is happening very rapidly. A society's problems ean be overcome, but it takes dedication and giving by all its members. Those of you who know me, know I'm a fighter, and as a legislator, will try my best to get a lot of work done and overcome some nasty problems we're facing today. Please keep in touch. Write to: Steve Tataii, P.O. Box 11042, Honolulu, Hawai'i, 96828 or eall 732-1988. Mahalo a nui loa ia oukou apau. A hui hou, aloha. Rep. Dist 28 (Makiki, Kaimuki) Mark Au (R) *Jim Shon (D) No statements were received from candidates continued page 27
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 30 (Waikiki, Ala Wai) Nyie Roberts (L)
My name is Nyle Roberts. I am running for the Waikiki 30th representative district. I grew tired of ail the money that corrupts our political parties. Tired of the laek of discussion about the real issues that effect the quality of our lives.
After 30 years of voting for Democrats and Republicans I have eome to realize that they are not independent. Both are beholden to big money. It is the speculators and real estate developers who get the ear of our leadership. This year I chose to switch to a truly independent party: the Libertarians. The Democrats and Republicans won't talk about the large amounts of money and the insiders that it creates because they know it would kill the goose that lays the golden eggs. Everyone who gives a vote to one of the old parties gives their approval for things to be done that way. Our leadership always keeps us talking about material things. Taking sides in their battles over buildings, railroads and who owns what. All the while they keep us fighting over these things they are taking in millions in contributions from speculators and real estate developers who are first in line to have their interest taken care of. What about our relationships with eaeh other? This is where we need real leadership: A leadership that returns us to a kinder, gentler Hawai'i. A Hawai'i where universal respect for others is the means to eliminate crime. One that cares about the world because we are the world. One that leads us back to personal compassion instead of leaving it up to others and the government to do the caring. The most important issue I see facing Hawaiian voters is the same issue that we all must face: We must hold on to and revive our spiritual heritage. That heritage speaks of our relationships with eaeh other, our relationship with all life and of all relationship with our land that we eall home. The basis of all relationships is the same relationship that God has with us: love. We must leam to love our neighbors, love all life and give loving care to the land. Love begins with respect. We must respect eaeh other and the government must respect its citizens. We need to elect government leaders who are willing to respect the Hawaiian people by giving them sovereignty over their own lands. If we want a loving and peaceful world we have to pay more attention to "the way" we do things. The question that must be answered is what kind of a world do we want right now? My answer is a kinder and gentler world. Kinder in that we honor God's gifts to eaeh one by respecting their freedom and equality. Gentler by choosing forgiveness over persecution when a brother or sister makes a mistake in our eyes. Gentler in that we would never force or coerce anyone to follow our judgements. Listen to your heart when you go to vote.
Duke Bainum (D) No statement was received from candidate Stan Snodgrass (R)
The issues facing native Hawaiians today, are the same they have faced for many years. The issues are many and diverse. Lands, housing, protection of cultural heritage and language. However, the most important issue is
one of their abOity to determine what they need, what they want, and to present a unified voice in presenting those concerns. They must prioritize those needs in a realistic manner and proceed with a single purpose and force. OHA, having arrived at its program and priorities, should then make a presentation to the various legislators, that they may take that information to their respective caucuses. I would be pleased to be that spokesman in the Republican caucus. I would propose to meet with the appropriate OHA officers to assist, in every way possible, to promote those programs and provide a voice in the House. As a long time resident of our Waikiki/Ala Wai district, I have seen it change from a beautiful beach resort enjoyed by loeal residents as well as tourists, to a neighborhood made virtually impenetrable by traffic jams, ugly with concrete towers and unhealthy because of car and truck exhaust. 1 have seen the deterioration of mueh of the Hawaiian culture. When I first eame to Waikiki, I fished in the Ala Wai. Today, the Ala Waiisafilthy sewer, harboring not only garbage, rubber tires and rusted auto parts, but a bacterial count that is dangerous to anyone who paddles through it. The leadership I offer will be active in assaulting plans and proposals that negatively impact on our neighborhoods and Hawai'i. 1 promise, both you and the full Legislature will hear my voice. Rep. Dist. 34 (Liliha, Alewa Heights) Paul K. Au (R) Suzanne Chun (D) No statements were received from candidates Rep. Dist. 35 (Kakaako, downtown) Chuck Fasi (R)
I'm running for office because over the last four years things have been getting tougher and tougher. It seems no matter how hard my wife and I work, the dreams we have for our future are farther from our reach than ever
before. Homes are unaffordable, rents are unbearable, and our taxes are unreasonably high. We're all struggling just to provide the basics for our families. Most importantly, I'm running because this is my home, I love Hawai'i. While I could have moved to the mainland where things are easier, like many of our island sons and daughters, I've chosen to stay and raise my family here! Because of that, I'm determined to make sure that life in Hawai'i is not made any more difficult because of what state government does and doesn't do! Ask yourselves why the same old problems we've had year after year have finally reached crisis proportions? Why, as our state prospers with a great eeonomie boom our lives have not gotten any better? Why, with our people paying the highest taxes in the nation, we cannot keep school lunches below 50 cents or maintain schools so they're fire safe? Why is it that we ean propose to spend $2.5 million on airports for more tourists
and yet cannot adequately fund basic programs whieh serve our people directly? Ask yourselves why after 70 years only 3,000 families have received homesteads from fhe Hawaiian Homes Act? That because of disgraceful inaction, the waiting list has exploded to 20,000. Consider that there is still no inventory/appraisal nor any real discussion on the control or management of your land. Land provides strength and eulture and is therefore of primary importance to the future of all Hawaiians. How your land is used and controlled will determine the benefits you receive from it. This is what the Hawaiian people should be fighting for! Let there be no doubt. The issues whieh eonfront our state today affect everyone! Affordable housing and rentals, high cost of living, taxes, education, crime, foreign investment, real estate speculation are a few of the problems whieh we must address now, if we are to have the future we desire for ourselves and our children. The bottom line is that state government has lost track of what's important. It should be working for us instead of we working for it! It must begin to provide for our needs first! After all, a state is only as strong as you and I! I'm optimistic that we ean do what needs to be done! I believe that my strong conviction and determination to do what's right will make things happen. Solutions ean be found but, to find them we cannot afford any longer to conduct the business of state government in a manner that's grown comfortable and convenient for the last 35 years. Real solutions to hard problems are never so easy! *Ken Hiraki (D)
During the past four years that I have served as representative for the 35th district, I have supported legislation favorable to the Hawaiian people. Additional measures must be enacted for the education and training of Hawaiian
youth and adults that they may compete successfully in their pursuits of higher education and better jobs. I feel that the most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA during the next five years is obtaining increased funding for the infrastructure development of laws designated as Hawaiian Home Lands in order that assignment of leases may be expedited. The continued existence of long waiting lists of eligible applicants for homeand agricultural-sites due to laek of funding for power, water, sewage disposal, and streets is not justified. I am certain that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs ean develop a five-year budget specifying priorities for infrastructure development. The legislature, working with the executive branch of government, ean then determine the amounts and sources of moneys for meeting these critical needs. As a continuing member of the Eeonomie Development and Hawaiian Affairs Committee, I shall be able to provide direction and support for bills meeting the best interests of Native Hawaiians. Rep. Dist. 39 (Kapalama, Foster Village) *Romy Cachola (D) I believe that OHA has made great strides in assessing and defining the issues that are important to Hawaiians. After nearly a decade of existence, it is now necessary to develop programs and efforts whieh will allow OHA to reach some of its goals. In this regard, I believe that a stronger effort must be maele to make lands available for housing and homesteading. More of an effort must be made to review health care and those particular continued page 29
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 39 health problems that confront those of Hawaiian ancestry. Connie Chun (R) No statement was received from candidate. Rep. Dist. 41 (Halawa, Aiea) *Tom Okamura (D)
The most important issue OHA and Native Hawaiians face really revolves around the multitude of issues related to self-governance for the Native Hawaiian people. This major question will involve the reroanition and estah-
lishment of a sovereign entity whieh will govern Native Hawaiian affairs. This venture will involve complex challenges and tremendous opportunities for Native Hawaiians over the next five years. For example, there will be complicated questions involving:
1) jurisdiction over ceded and Hawaiian Home lands; 2) poiiheal relationships between the newentity, OHA, the State of Hawai'i and the United States; 3) political powers the State and U.S. will recognize in the new entity; 4) providing financial and eeonomie assistance and compensation for the past uses of land and resources to the new entity; and 5) the transition to self-governance for Native Hawaiians so that there will be minimal poliheal disruption. In the course of the debate over these concerns, OHA will be faced with tremendous tasks and opportunities to properly plan and allocate its limited resources to benefit the Hawaiian people. I would urge OHA to actively include its beneficiaries in this planning process, especially in light of the expanded resources it received this year from the ceded lands settlement recently approved by the 1990 Legislature. Many of the questions whieh will arise in addressing this issue will require the consensus of the Native Hawaiian people and some long-term planning, perhaps by the Office of State Planning. Nevertheless, all state government officials should immediately plaee enhanced priority on the recurrent problems involving Hawaiians for whieh the state is currently responsible as a trustee to demonstrate its resolve. For example, we must make major improvements to the administration
of the Hawaiian Home Lands program. Over 14,000 Native Hawaiians wait for homesteads. It has been estimated that it will cost $925 million to plaee them on their lands. Yet, this program receives only 0.1% of our entire state operating budget. We cannot do it alone. If we are to plaee priority on resolving the immense problems of this program, we must make a more serious financial and political commitment. We must get more federal help — financially and otherwise. This land base is just a part of the larger dominion over whieh Native Hawaiians should obtain ultimate control, so they ean be masters of their own destiny. The U.S. ean affirm its trust responsibility to Native Hawaiians by ratifying the "purpose" clause, recently enacted by the 1990 Legislature, and make good on its commitment. The state government should continue to help by following the pledge it made in Article XII, Sections 1-3 of our state constitution. OHA should integrate its recent!y acquired ceded land revenues (about $8.5 million annually plus a package estimated to be worth $100 million) to finance capital improvements on homestead land through general bond financing. I look forward to working with OHA and other Hawaiian agencies to meet these challenges. I pledge my cooperation. But without the initiative from those directly affected, we cannot make long term changes together for their benefit. I will seek continued page 30
State Candidate Profiles
State House Rep. Dist. 41 guidance from a unified Hawaiian community and leadership. Gerard J. Lebrecht (R) No statement was received from candidate. Rep. Dist. 48 (Nanakuli, Maili) *Henry Haalilio Peters (D)
Our communities on the Wai'anae Coast — Nanakuli, Maili, Wai'anae and Makaha — share a number of eommon problems. Some of these problems are statewide concerns as well. Among the most important issues for
Leewara coast residents are tne suppiy ot moderately priced housing, traffic congestion, education, crime and drugs. Housing In response to the housing need, the Legislative fias increased assistance for the construction of more affordable housing and placed $ 145 million in the Homes Revolving Fund to assist low-ineome and first-time home buyers. In addition, housing development on Hawaiian Home Lands such asin the Nanakuli and Wai'anae Homestead areas remains a priority and homestead development has been accelerated with more than $50 million available for infrastructure improvements. Traffic T raffic congestion and the conditions along Farrington Highway are also important to our eommunity. Traffic safety improvements as well as imp' ovements needed to accommodate increased usage and the development of an alternate emergency evacuation route are among the key legislative actions taken to relieve the traffic and transportation problems of the 48th district. Education Education is the key to unlocking the vast potential of our greatest resource — our children. 1 was very fortunate to be involved in the creation of the Special Needs Schools program whieh provides millions of dollars over and above the Department of Education (DOE) budget to certain schools including those on the Wai'anae Coast. Crime and Drugs Intervention, prevention and information are part of the overall strategies being used in our ongoing campaign to win the war on drugs. From improving our community services to establishing tougher laws to assist in the crackdown on dangerous and harmful drugs, the commitment has been made. The OHA Editor has asked that we identify in this article the most important issue facing Native Hawaiians and OHA in the next five years. Hawaiian Trust Assets However I believe that elected trustees to OHA are responsibile for identifying OHA's major issues and they deserve high marks for the outstanding work that they have done. One of the most important issues that the OHA trustees have identified is that of sovereignty and trust assets. On the subject of trust assets OHA has recently taken a strong and commendable position by adopting a resolution entitled "Opposing any further loss of the Native Hawaiian land base through governmental intrusion." According to the resolution "... the Hawaiian community has been an unwilling witness to the steady and relentless diminishing of the trusts provided them by their ali'i ..." The OHA Trustees' position against the Land Reform Act is clear. "The Land Reform Act of
1967 has been particulary effective at eroding that special land base the ali'i set for their people, forcing sales at lowest possible prices even against the wishes of the beneficiaries . . . The resolution concludes that OHA "... strongly opposes any existing and proposed legislation, such as mandatory conversion of residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial leasehold that force landowners to convey title to their real property upon demand of the lessees." I urge all Hawaiians to vote in the upcoming General Election on Tuesday, November 6! Imua! Rory Horning (R) No statement was received from candidate. Rep. Dist. 49 (Waianae, Makaha, N. Kauai) *Peter Apo (D)
The four most important issues facing Hawai'i are educationaI reform, affordable housing, health, and the environment. However, these problems are difficult for governfnent to address because democracy is not
a very expedient process when trying to build eonsensus. Over the years the general public has demanded greater checks and balances in government decision making. This is a Catch-22 situation that protects the public from capriciousdecisions, yet has resu!ted in a slow-moving system of timeconsuming processes. As for Native Hawaiians and OHA, 1 believe sovereignty is the most important issue in the next five years. How ean we bring control of the resources held in trust for Hawaiians under the direct control of the Hawaiian community? It is obvious that having these resources held "in trust" has not worked and that the record of both state and federal authorities in such trust management has been more than dismal and less than honest. My preference of a sovereignty model is one incorporating a representative democracy of elected Hawaiians in the form of a congress, with jurisdiction over all resources to whieh the Hawaiian community is already entitled by law. With a fully operational congress in plaee, armed with more than adequate resources, we would then have an authoritative forum to address other issues as reparations and Hawaiian Home Lands. Barbara Hodges (R)
1. The most important issue is to clearly define the purpose and goal of eaeh agency and officer's position. 2. To set these purposes and goals to a vote of t"he people and let majority rule. 3. To remove people
from positions if they do not carry out the directives. 4. To replace anyone with conflict of interest regarding goals of the Native Hawaiians. Break the "we know what's best" old boy rule. 5. To carefully identify the motives of eaeh person in the ehain of events reaching any particular goal. 6. Recognize and accept the fact that Hawaiians have no land because it is willfully held back until enough 50 percenters die so that there will be no one to elaim their birthright. 7. Recognize and accept the fact that the eolleetive body of Hawaiians would be the richest and most powerful group in Hawai'i if they were lease
holders — not space-keepers waiting in line. 8. Smokescreens are being created to confuse the issues when the answers are simple. Give everyone qualified their pieee of land now. Survey, subdivide, award. 9. Then help leaseholders form strong associations and request funds, grants and other help from a position of competition and strength, rather than from weakness of separation. 10. Open offices in every corner of the islands and help Hawaiians fill out their papers. Contract with small nonprofits to do the work. "Access to process" is the weapon todefeat the people. Education and truth are the tools they need to build their dream; a home in Hawai'i, and Hawaiian control of the assets of the Hawaiian nation. Uncontested races The following candidates were uncontested in the primary election and were automatically elected. Their names will not appear on the general election ballot. State Senate • 3rd district: Malama Solomon (D) • 13th district: Bertrand Kobayashi (D) • 16th district: Russell Blair (D) • 17th district: Anthony Chang (D) • 19th district: Dennis Nakasato (D) • 22nd distr'Ct: Eloise Tungpalan (D) • 25th district: Lehua Fernandes Salling (D) State House • 2nd district: Harvey Tajiri (D) • 3rd district: Wayne Metcalf (D) • 4th district: Dwight Takamine (D) • 8th district: Herbert Honda (D) • 10th district: Roz Baker (D) • 13th district: Robert Bunda (D) • 15th district: Reb Bellinger (D) • 17th district: Marshall lge (D) • 25th district: Calvin Say (D) • 27th district: Brian Taniguchi (D) • 29th district: David Hagino (D) • 31st district: Carol Fukunaga (D) • 32nd district: Mazie Hirono (D) • 33rd district: Rod Tam (D) • 36th district: Dwight Yoshimura (D) • 37th district: Dennis Arakaki (D) • 38th district: Emilio Aleon (D) • 40th district: Karen Horita (D) • 42nd district: Clarice Hashimoto (D) • 43rd district: David Ige (D) • 44th district: Noboru Yonamine (D) • 45th district: Julie Duldulao (D) • 46th district: Paul Oshiro (D) • 47th district: Annelle Amaral (D) • 50th district: Ezra Kanoho (D) • 51st district: Bertha Kawakami (D) Xmas fair Nov. 24-25 Celebrate in the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas at the Mission Houses Museum's 17th annual Christmas Fair. The fair, one of Honolulu's oldest and most prestigious, will be held on November 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. eaeh day on the Museum grounds at 553 South King Street. Talented island craftspeople will eome from throughout the state to offer their wares in a colorful Hawaiian-style open market. Ornaments,fresh and dried wreaths, leis, toys, ceramics, jewelry, one-of-a-kind clothing and fine woodwork are among the very special items to be offered. A variety of entertainment and edible delights will complete the festive atmosphere. The fair is open to the puhlie and admission is free to the museum grounds.