Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 13, Number 10, 1 ʻOkakopa 1996 — Profiles of OHA candidates for trustee positions [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]
Profiles of OHA candidates for trustee positions
By Kelli Meskin
This election edition of Ka Wai Ola 0 OHA is intended to inform OHA voters of 23 OHA candidates running for four trustee seats, one At-Large seat, one Hawai'i island seat, one Moloka'i/Lāna'i and one Kaua'i/Ni'ihau seat. On Tuesday, November 5, OHA voters across the state will eaeh choose four among these candidates. There are eight candidates running for the At-Large seat, five candidates for the Hawai'i Island seat, three candidates for the Moloka'i seat and seven candidates for the Kaua'i seat. In the 1994 OHA election, 73.2 percent of the 75,766 registered OHA voters cast their ballots for 5 trustee seats.
We encourage OHA voters to educate themselves on the candidates and choose to the best of their ability. To better aide voters this year Ka Wai Ola O OHA sent out a questionnaire and invited the 23 candidates to respond with basic information about their previous political experience, community contributions, employment and why they want to be an OHA trustee. We also asked them questions on today's Hawaiian issues, such as the blood quantum debate, their view of sovereignty and issues of eoncern throughout the state and OHA entitlements. The incumbents seeking re-election this year include OHA Trustee At-Large Klna'u Kamali'i, Hawai'i Island Trustee Moanike'ala Akaka, Moloka'i Trustee Samuel Kealoha Jr., and Kaua'i Trustee
Moses Keale Sr. A 1 1 candidates were given ample opportunity to respond to the questionnaire. Ka Wai Ola O OHA would like to extend its mahalo to those candidates who took time from their campaign schedule to tell Hawaiian voters about their views and goals. Replies were not received from Frank Kepilii - candidate for At-Large position, Francis Kauhane - candidate for Hawai'i Island, Bene Kaiwi - candidate for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau and Henry Smith Jr. - candidate for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau. Trustees currently serving terms that end in 1998 are not up for election this year. They include Chairman and O'ahu Trustee Clayton Hee, Vice-Chairman and Maui Trustee Abe Aiona, Trustee At-Large Rowena Akana, Trustee At-
Large Frenchy DeSoto and Trustee AtLarge Billie Beamer. All candidate responses have been listed in the order they will appear on the OHA ballots.
Vote for: One — At-Large One — Hawai'i One — Kaua'i One — Moloka'i
OHA candidates for At-Large position
■ Name: Haunani Apoliona 'O wau no o Haunani I Apoliona. Ua hānau wau i ka I makahiki ' umikumaiwa I hanele Kanahākūmāiwa ma I Honolulu, O'ahu. He lima I hana wau me Alu Like mai ka I makahiki 'umikūmāiwa I hanele kanahikukūmāwalu a i hiki i kēia manawa. He hana j maika'i a nui kēia no nā Hawai'i mai ka mokupuni o
Hawai'i a Ni'ihau i kēia mau makahiki ' iwakāluakūmākahi . A e mau ana ka mākou hana pono, ka mākou hana kāko'o o na Hawai'i. 'Akahi no wau ke 'imi nei 1 ke kuleana o ke kahu waiwai o OHA. What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? 20 years: providing emp!oyment/training, outreach services; directing program administrators serving social development, education, employment, eeonomie development needs for Hawaiians, six years as President/CEO for Alu Like, a statewide, multi-million dollar, non-profit serving Hawaiians. Perpetuating Hawaiian language and kī hō'alu. Recieved volunteer leadership recognition awards.
Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? Fiduciary responsibilities of Trustees require: a) strategy and action to "marshall resources" to protect entitlements threatened by legislative or executive branches; b) increasing assets and partnerships by investing, matching, leveraging, joint venturing or capitalizing intitiatives that generate ineome to support services to Hawaiians (by appropriate service providers); c)advocating, as codified by the Hawai'i Constitution, Hawai'i Revised Statutes, and federal law, for native Hawaiians and Hawaiians, to ensure that government policy £uid systems do not impede OHA's ability to fulfill its legal mandate and responsibility; d) implementing the 1992 OHA Master Plan and mission, evaluating performance and accomplishments of 1991-1997 Functional Plan, and planning 1997-2003 Functional Plan direction with participation by agencies, community and government groups (Hawaiian and nonHawaiian). What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawaiians must exercise personal sovereignty daily by making responsible and informed choices for themselves, their families and those they are responsible for without doing harm to others. Hawaiian political sovereignty calls for the management and control of land and natural and
cultural resources by Hawaiians, including the management and control of monetary, commercial, or investment assets derived from those resources. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? The blood quantum is a problem when it divides Hawaiians from addressing eommon needs. With regard to quantum restrictions on resource and service provisions, OHA ean match trust dollars with nontrust dollars by securing public or private funding. Barring legal restrictions, OHA could set aside gains from investments to establish a second trust fund investing in business and commercial enterprises generating an ineome stream for uses.
Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Based on the language in Chapter 10, OHA is mandated to advocate for Hawcdians and native Hawaiians, whieh may include provision of advice and information, legislation, litigation and negotiation. To conduct "advocacy efforts for native Hawaiians and Hawaiians" and to "advise and inform federal, state and county officials about native Hawaiians and Hawaiian programs."
Name: Deldrene (DeeDee) Nohealani Herron Age: 47 Plaee of birth: Oahu, Hawai'i Occupation: Candidate for Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Trustee- at I Large I Previous polkieal experienee:
Formerly, President of Associated Students of Kaua'i Community College; formerly a graduate of UH at Manoa, Bachelor of Social Work, and over 20 years of business experience. What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? One year as a VISTA working with Hawaiian youths, Administrative Assistant to FEMA during Hurricane Iwa recovery, organized vendors on Kaua'i, protested against Nukoli'i, Pacific Missile Range expansion, and French nuclear testing. Testifier at Waiāhole Water hearing. Key Project Youth Counselor. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I believe OHA must be the lead agency of the Hawaiian people for self-determination and self-govemance until
we all decide where we want to stand in the international arena through a puwalu process. I would also like Klna'u Kamali'i to get out of OHA as my representative. As your trustee I would not get in bed with the state or federal govemment. In the '80s Kamali'i was appointed to the Hawaiian Study Commission; the Honolulu Advertiser called it "A Bizarre Charade." Again, in the '90s she is appointed to the Hawaiian Sovereignty Election Council. This shows that she does not believe that OHA should be, "a separate entity independent of the Executive branch of govemment" (Rep. No. 59, 1978 Constitutional Convention, 645). Alu Like, whieh is funded partly by OHA, does not support Hawaiian youth seeking higher education. Hawaiians who pursue a professional educational degree and educahonal standards, other than meital or tourist jobs, are not supported in the Liberal Arts core whieh is the backbone of all professional studies in any university. It fosters a denial of our people's potential and I want to see that changed. Other programs whieh plaee emphasis on activities for our youth, 24 hour child care services for working parents, services for our kūpuna, and agriculture/aquaculture should be made immediate priorities of OHA as the days of welfare and plantation wardship are disappearing. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? My view of Hawaiian sovereignty stems from my ancestors who were of the Moana genealogy (Ha'alelea'aina, Kipa, Ha'alilio, Ka'aikao, Kanakaole, Ahuna). Sovereignty is my birthright. I challenge any other nation to deny Hawaiians the right to exist as sovereigns. As
Hawai'i sovereigns, it will be our ehoiee to decide under whieh form of govemment we want to incorporate. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Presently, Hawaiians are not free to decide. I will leave the blood quantum issue out of my campaign as I believe it will be for our people to decide when we secure our independence from the federal and state govemment. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resovle these concerns for Hawaiians? (Candidate did not answer question.)
Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? OHA's 20% share of 5(e), and Public Lands 88-233 must be amended to a 50/50 share. I strong!y believe OHA should wean ourselves off of the federal and state relationship, and wean them off of lands and eeonomie land based incomes whieh were stolen in an act of war. Until we succeed as a nation, I will advocate as your OHA trustee (at-large) to invest my full-time effort to protect our present rights and entitlements.
OHA candidates for At-Large position
Name: Dwayne Kaiakoili Kalani, Jr. Age: 33 Plaee of birth: Honolulu, Hawai'i Occupation: Financial Services Previous political experienee: I am a graduate from 'Iolani High School with no previous polkieal experience except I have been a regis-
tered voter since the age of 18. What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? My contributions to the Hawaiian community have been two years in the Hawaiian Studies program at Fort Shafter Elementary as a kumu. I also helped many families get out of debt, set up investment programs to own their own homes, provide a college education for their children, and retire with financial dignity.
Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I would like to become an OHA trustee because I feel certain individuals who hold trustee positions have not adequately provided for the people of Hawai'i. I have a strong disbelief in slandering or insulting politics and will not reveal their names. However, because of my strength and background in financial services, I have the ability and know!edge to assure the safety in future investment programs. Some of these funds have been lost through previous unwise investments. I feel through proper investments, funds ean be used for education, and further Hawaiian immersion programs and help fund loans to the kanaka maoli. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? As far as sovereignty is concerned, I feel we always have been sovereign, we always will be sovereign, and it's up to the loeal and federal govemment to recognize our sovereign rights.
Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Regarding blood quantum law, I don't know if there is a problem, but the people with the most Hawaiian blood should take priority. Because the kūpuna have been waiting longer than those with less blood, who are the younger generation. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? The only way to resolve the major issues of substance abuse is education. Housing and economy, get our ceded land back to the Hawaiian peoples' hands! Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? I believe all Hawaiians should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements.
Name: Kina'u Boyd Kamali'i ! Age: 65 (Bom October 24, 1930) Plaee of birth: Honolulu, T. H. (Territory of Hawai'i) Occupation: Retired Administrator, State Health Planning and Development Agency (1987-93) I Previous p o I i t i e a I experi- ; enee: Member, State House ' of Representatives for ten
years ( 1 974-82); first woman to serve as Minority Leader and Floor Leader. Presidential appointment, Chair, Native Hawaiians Study Commission (1981-83). U'hat contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? The Native Hawaiians Study Commission report, we set forth the claims for land and sovereignty adopted in the federal apology law; substantiated the needs whieh eonvinced Congress to enact the Hawaiian Health and Education Acts; and compelled investigations of the Hawaiian Homes trust whieh resulted in the state land transfer of 16,000 acres, $600 million, and the federal settlement act. Why do you want to be an OHA trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state relationship? Hawaiians are at a critical juncture in determining our
future. The "YES" vote for Hawaiian sovereignty eleetions; the fight with the Govemor over OHA's revenues; and the courts' ralings on Hawaiian land claims are only the most conspicuous examples of the challenges we face. OHA trastees must have the courage, the will, and the ability to meet these challenges and rebuild the Hawaiian naūon. I believe I have the skills, knowledge, and caring to positively contribute to that future. OHA must responsibly begin investing in that future - mindful that we are the bridge, not the goal of this journey. Our best efforts - and money - must now be used to settle the land claims for all Hawaiians. We must also empower our people to describe and fulfill dreams larger than OHA ean now meet.
W'hat is vour view of Hawaiian sovereignty? I personally favor "a nation within a nation." However, we must learn from the mistakes of the other Native American governments. We must hold title to our lands. We must then continue to be the trastees, not the wards, to our assets and decisions. And we must have separate land and money base to implement those decisions. Is the blood quantum law problem? If you believe it is how would you resolve the problem? Hawaiians are now divided by the very blood whieh joins us as people and as a family. The first right of sovereignty is to exist and to define your own membership. I fully expect any Hawaiian convention to choose a definition whieh unifies our people.
Throughout Hawai'i major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? OHA must continue to support and explore partnerships in addressing the social ills whieh affect the people of Hawai'i. Drugs and aleohol are a tragedy because they fundamentally occur as a matter of ehoiee. Housing options must include rentals and long-term leasing arrangements. The economy.can be improved by respecting what is Hawaiian and good for Hawai'i. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? During the past four years, I have led the Land and Sovereignty Committee into active advocacy and aeeomplishment in the areas of entitlement and rights. We have successfully sued the state to stop the sale of ceded lands. We have aggressively intervened in the Waiāhole case to establish needed recognition of Hawaiian water rights. We also filed support briefs in the landmark PASH case to guarantee traditional access and gathering rights. These initiatives must eonūnue. We are not Hawaiians solely by ancestry and a shared past. We are Hawaiian in our daily practices and beliefs, and an assured future of living as Hawaiians in our own homeland.
Lunalilo was the first elected monarch in the Hawaiian government, in 1873. He reigned for one year until his death in 1874.
Name: Aloha Velma Kekipi Age: 53 Plaee of birth: Kapahulu, O'ahu Occupation: Cashier and a resource person for nā mea Hawai'i ( lauhala preparation, weaving, lei making, lomi oluolu, etc.) Previous political experienee: None
What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? a) Alu Like O'ahu Board, 1983-85 b) Dual member of the Wai'anae and the Nānāikapono Hawaiian Civic Clubs e) Elected and served two terms on the Wai'anae Coast Neighborhood Board from the Nānākuli Distict, 1984 and 1987. d) Resource in nā mea Hawai'i for the Wai'anae Coast Culture and the Arts, Katherine K. Maunakea
Foundation, and Na Hui Kuilima Kokua (Organization of Helping Hands). Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? During the 1978 Constitutional Convention, I followed the "Hawaiian Affairs Bill" and appriciate those delegates' efforts to comply with the U.S. Constitution and still create a "Hawaiian Affairs Office" to better the conditions of all "Hawaiians." When it became law, I offered my candidacy along with 120 others. I saw OHA as an improvement to the State Constitution, the fourth branch of the State government or its "heart" / "conscience." From 1980 to 1990, I offered my candidacy six times. I'm offering my candidacy for the seventh time, and I see OHA relegated to a state agency subject to the whims of the Governor and State Legislature. Because I am priviledged to have lived among native speakers, and nā kūpuna who shared their mana'o 'i'o (inner thoughts and wisdom), I seek the office this time with
inspiration that this weakh of " kupuna wisdom" must be brought to the table and implemented. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? I believe that it will become a reality. What form it takes, will be up to the majority of the people to decide. Until such time, I believe OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how woukl you resolve the problem? It was an imposition on us, but over time, I see it as a blessing in disguise. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these eoncerns for Hawaiians? A partial answer and a win-win situation, is to create cultural life-style programs that are educational and economically profitable for all of the islands.
No pnoto
OHA candidates for At-Large position i
Name: Carlos Mahi Manuel Age: 54 Plaee of birth: Honolulu, Hawai'i What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? I have contributed to the Hawaiian community by serving as an Evangelist at Ka Hale Hoano o Ke Akua Church, Kalihi, O'ahu.
Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I would like the opportunity to serve my Hawaiian eommunity as trustee in order to help our people understand their role as beneficiary and the obligation the trustee must perform. My vision for programs under OHA, create a one-stop clearing house of services for the beneficiary. For funding, accountability on assets of OHA and to restructure its financial direction.
What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawaiian sovereignty is the equivalent to the Hawaiian Monarchy government whieh is vacant and lacking its citizens. Is the blood quantum law a prob!em? If you
believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? I do believe the blood quantum is a problem because it is discriminatory by its nature to single our race from others for monetary gains. To resolve this issue we must eliminate the very law promoted by individuals determined to divide our people. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? As an OHA trustee my obligation, although narrow by its origination, is to only serve the Hawaiian (blood) people.
Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? The OHA trustee's primary duty is to protect and preserve all the beneficiaries rights in law and equity.
No photo availabie
Kalākaua was voted in by the legislature in 1874 over Queen Emma, Kamehameha IV's widow. OHA candidates for At-Large position
, Name: Bernadette Mokihana Watson Age: 43 Plaee of birth: Hāna, Maui i Occupation: Business Manager, Community Activist | Previous p o l i t i e a I experienee: I ran for City Council, 8th district in 1 994. 1 sit on the Waipahu Neighborhood Board, Chair of Transportation Committee.
\Vhat contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? President of a family-based organization, Nā Pua Aloha, whieh perpetuates language, culture, values and traditions. I am the editor of Ka Leo o Nā Pua. I volunteer at Waipahu Cultural Garden Park, as a Hawaiiana resource. I am a past director of Pūnana Leo o Honolulu. I am a single parent of a son in Hawaiian language immersion. VVhy do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I want to uplift the Hawaiian people as we move into the next century. I want to ehampion the plight of our people. I was asked to run for this office by the people who know me best, my 'ohana and life-long friends. I have no poliheal strings, special interests (big business)
groups or running slates. As an OHA Trustee, I will work diligently on programs and policies to better ourselves. I want to target programs on education, housing and heahh. I want to see more of OHA's monies going to programs and beneficiaries. OHA now issues tax-free revenue bonds, we ean use this financial leverage to invest in and develop programs. In the 1960s, we spoke of reparations, through the 70's and 80's we spoke of reclamations. Now we want eeonomie and political autonomy through sovereignty, taking care of both reparations and reclamations for past wrongs and current ills. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? It is the power of the people to control their own affairs through governing the polkieal, social, cultural and eeonomieal mechanisms framed by them. These meehanisms, set by constitution, should work for the people in self-sufficiency and areas of foreign affairs. Land, water and natural resources must be included to assure the eeonomieal viability necessary for a successful government. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you helieve it is, how would you resolve the problem? Our Hawaiian community is moving to less pure Hawaiians and a growing number of part Hawaiians. We need to secure our future by moving with the changes, we need a congressional amendment to redefine native Hawaiians. The original act defined those with as little as l/32nd Hawaiian as the beneficiaries.
Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? The stress of our high cost of living is the underlying factor to social woes, such as substance abuse, domestic abuse, crime and laek of proper housing. We must set up fundamental programs. We need more qualified heahh care and educational service employees. Let's work with other agencies and departments in providing the eeonomie means to achieve those goals. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Advocating Hawaiian rights and entitlements should be of the highest priority. While OHA provides approximately 75% of funding for the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, to defend land titles or interest in real property — we need to aggressively heighten our pursuit to gain legal entitlements. Indigenous rights, native claims for land and water rights, inherent rights, human rights and protection of personal property should be regarded and pursued as eollective rights for all Hawaiians. I will fight for all rights and entitlements for native Hawaiians, I will protect them by any and all possible legal means.
OHA candidates for Hawai'i island seat
Name: Moanike'ala Akaka Age: 52 Plaee of birth: Honolulu Occupation: Hawai'i Island Tnistee for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Previous political experience and contributioas made to the Hawaiian communitv? Pioneer Hawaiian Movement: Kalama Valley '70; founding member Protect Kaho'olawe
'Ohana; Leader - Labor Day '78 Hilo airport runway ($1/2 M annual paid DHHL); 26 years grass-roots involvement — native rights / land issues as recent as Mākua; Hawai'i Island OHA Trustee '84 - present; Trustee negotiator 2 1/2 years for $128 M setdement paid OHA for Naūve Hawaiians from '80 - 90, eonūnued over $12 M annually. On unresolved issues — Judge Heely rccendy ruled state owes OHA $170 M + Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and \vhat is your \ision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? 1 offCT knowledge, experience and dedicaticm to Hawaiian issues and concems over past quarter century, if re-elected, ean eonūnue to make positive impaei on our future. We finally have resources to help Hawaiians: $10 M Educational Endowment Fund, purchasing of Nawahīokalani'ōpu'u Language Immersion School
and Makali'i Polynesian Voyaging Canoe are in right direction. Essential: OHA must take from our Investmest Portfolio and invest in our Hawaiian people and ftiture. It is imperative OHA fund viable programs and projects that help uplift Nā Po'e. Needed: Trustees vision , dedication, political sagacity. 1) $10 M Habitat for Humanity Revolving Loan Fund at 1.5% interest will enable many families to own homes. 2) Needed: A Hawaiian health plan 3) Facilitate community-based eeonomie development, loans (seed-money) for small business. 4) Upcoming Waimanalo Kūpuna Housing Project (OHA and DHHL) — firstofmanyneeded Federal and State govemments have trust obligation to help Hawaiian people and nation. We must onipa'a! What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? A positive Hawaiian Vote was the first step, there should be exteasivc workshops statewide on the different models on sovereignty before there is any vote of delegates to a Hawaiian Constitutional Convention. It is up to us Hawaiians to formulate the best constitution ever forged by civilized people.These are the birthing pains of our nalion. Is the bk>od quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Most Hawaiians are less than 50% in blood-quantum. A vote taken by OHA in '87, 83% said all Hawaiians should benefit from ceded lands trust Cunently, OHA is legally forced to use trust rev-
enues for 50%+ Hawaiians only. OHA ean and should fund programs for all Hawaiians. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of concern include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? Poverty, alienalion and landlessness are expressed through substance abuse, domestic violence and criminality. I promote programs conceming self-help housing and other altematives, educatioajob training, business loans/financial management, substance abuse and youth programs. For sovereignty — we need healed Hawaiians for nation / society at-latge. OHA must facilitate healing with programs and outside funding. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would youacttoprotectthoserightsandentitlements? OHA has a primary responsibility to advocate for native rights and entitlements, I have been doing so for 26 years. As Hawaiians we have some recent excellent court rulings (i.e. PASHKohana'iki, two on ceded lands) and substantial kālā (retroactive settlement and revenue stream); there are allempts by Govemor Cayetano and certain legislators to take back what we have stiuggled long and hard for. Pro-development interests will be in the Legislature to undermine native rights. We need trustees who will maka'ala, have visioa foresight and compassion!
Name: Loveymae Akamu-Scott Age: 56 Plaee of birth: Pāhala, Ka'ū, Hawai'i I Occupation: Volunteer 1 Researcher Previous poliheal experience: I've voted for approximately 36years!! I'maconcemed native Hawaiian, dissatisfied with what is not happening for • ourpeople.
What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian eommunity? Volunteer researcher, active and supportive of Hawaiian Land Preservation & Documentation Council. Helped provide Hawaiian community assistance on personal property, monetary, genealogy, water, land issues and Hawaiian rights on the beaches in the Judicial system. Gave back respect for judicial system after people won their cases. (System worked for Hawaiians) Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding, and federal and state trust relationship? Strong commitment to carry out purpose intended at the conception of OHA in 1978, created by the Constitutional
Convention. Vision for OHA is to be a sovereign govemment. To make and empower their own rules to be self-gov-emed by the people for the people. To enforce what was to be. Implement programs that directly benefit the household of thebeneficiaries!! Rent supplements (rent subsidies); Public food assistance and an OHA discount food-merchandise warehouse, similar to Costco or K-Mart, OHA become self-insured; cover all beneficiaries for medical, vision, dental, automobile, life, home. The State welfare reform is a emel joke on all poor people! ! My program would lessen the burden of the state. Constitutional Convention stmctured OHA as the tnist entity to receive and administer the share of the public land Trust Funds. OHA is self-sufficient! OHA is a separate entity from Federal or State controlled by its beneficiaries. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Based on our history, self-determination is a must for native Hawctiians/Koko! ! Sovereign govemment for the people by the people. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Yes! Amend the quantum law to meet the needs of the people, 50% - 100% is priority, less than 50% need OHA and DHHL to prepare programs to provide for our lesser % bene-
ficiaries. OHA must gain trust of beneficiaries on a one to one basis Give beneficiaries benefits!! Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? Between quantum and infrastructure, Hawaiians are without hope of ever owning a home. Our children more disillusioned with their lives and future. (No hope they look to dope). Put people on their land, in their homes, build industrial areas for Hawaiian Entrepreneurs. Give hope back to our people for a better future. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Definitely yes! ! Look into all areas and any means of advocating for Native Hawaiians. Back up their rights and entidements with research. Know our people's position and opponents position before we go into battle for Hawaiian rights and entitlements. I look forward entering into OHA with a mean, lean, fighting maehine. Research is most important in doing a job well done. I have the best! ! E Pili Kāua "Let's Be Together".
Name: Harry Fergerstrom (Brudda Hank) Age: 47 Plaee of birth: North Kohala, Hawai'i Occupation: Master Technician Computers Previous political experienee: In 1978, 1 ran for the State House of Representative. I've been fighting for Hawaiian Sovereignty for 20 years.
What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? 1)1 have studied with Kahuna Sam Lono, Aunty Pilahi Paki and Unele Charles Kein (?). 2) I am Hiapo of Nā Koa o Pu'ukoholā Heiau, Lead Awa Server. 3) Kalai Wa'a Moku O Hawai'i - Mau Loa, Makali'i. 4) Kailimoku o Ho'ona in Kona doing Royal Procession Kahiko style. 5) I write about spiritual events for, monthly newspaper, Ka'ū Landing. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? Fm happy with the existing programs, but would like to see more.
OHA should fund more Hawaiian cultural programs especially those involving arts and crafts, the growing of kalo. Other funding would be well spent on watchdog groups conceming land and water use. Groups such as Nā Koa o Pu'ukoholā Heiau should be funded because of the impact they have on the community. They display cooperation and integrity, and promote unity in true Hawaiian style. Programs that entice the youth to return or become involved with the native Hawaiian Culture are paramount. Too many grow up not knowing their culture and thinking Hawaiian is merely blood. OHA must work cooperatively with the state and federal govemments, but never lose sight as to whom the beneficiaries are. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawaiian sovereignty must gain control over the land and natural resources. Hawai'i is the hub of the Pacific, and therefore, integral to the development of the Pacific Basin. Without sovereignty the Hawaiians will benefit very little. lmua! Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Puhlie Law 103-150 defines Hawaiian as original inhabitants of Hawai'i prior to 1778. In law, you cannot have two definitions for the Same word.
Answer: Alter Hawaiian Homes with the definition as in P.L. Law 103-150. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? Give them an altemative to the westem way give them their Hawai'i. Develop cultural live-in centers and customizing housing. Substance abuse is only a symptom of a sickening society. Raise the self-esteem level through cultural immersion. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? OHA should be involved in all manner of advocacy regarding native Hawaiian rights — primary concems are water, land use, gathering rights. Protecting native Hawaiian religious rights addresses all these concems and should be utilized and challenged to get better clarity in law. OHA should be monitoring all legislative intent on both Hawai'i and nalional fronts. Advocacy groups should be utilized to the greatest advantage to the Hawaiian people. OHA should host an intemational (Nation of Hawai'i, Ka Lāhui, etc.) puwalu so we ean gather concems, make assignments toward the betterment of Hawaiians on all levels.
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OHA candidates for Hawai'i island seat
Name: Hannah Kihalani I Springer I Age: 44 | Plaee of birth: Kona, I Hawai'i I Occupation: Homemaker, I ethnographer I Previous political experii enee: None What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community?
I am a kama'āina of Ka'ūpūlehu one of the ahupua'a of North Kona, Hawai'i. My family and I actively maintain the presence of our line of the Ha'ilau and Kinolau descendants there. Whether in this capacity or as a writer and lecturer on nā mea Hawai'i, or as a member of various community groups, I practice and invite others to share in the kama'āina perspective.
Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? A trustee shall demonstrate prudence. By reorienting both incoming and sitting trustees in the propriety of trustee obligation and protocol, the foundation of the office may be strengthened. This is pono. A trustee shall demonstrate loyalty. By reorienting ourselves with the 'ike from the 1978 Constitutional
Convention we benefit from hindsight; by regularly revisiting and presenting refined master and functional plans we provide the criteria for evaluating trustee performance and thus provide some anticipation of future performance. This is aloha. A trustee shall marshal the resources of the trust. Various procedural hearings have evolved in my 'āina aloha, Kekaha, North Kona, it is clear that the money resources are not the only trust resources whieh require "marshalling." The natural and cultural resources also need responsible integrated management. The ahupua'a is the logical model for integrated planning for natural, eultural and market resources. This is onipa'a. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? 'O au no he kupa o ka 'āina. I am concerned with the condition of the land and its people first and foremost, I am committed to using all the tools available to ensure their wellbeing, including well reasoned and responsibly advanced sovereignty. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Yes. Resolution must be grounded in the principle of "loyalty to the Trust," one of the three comerstones of fīduciary responsibility. I cannot speak for the resolution if I doubt that the discussion of it has been full and tender. Or if I doubt that the vision from it does not, respectively, embrace us ali. Kākou a pau.
Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? The Hawaiian conditions in these areas were not eonceived in a vacuum nor shall they be resolved there. OHA does not exist to be a sole, or even principal, provider of services in these areas, but may facilitate delivery of services from the ali'i, public Hawaiian, and general public trusts and agencies, providing support and supplementation as needed. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Yes. Protection may be advanced by assuring consistency and conformity among the pertinent legislation, rules, regulations and policies affecting these rights and entitlements. This assurance may be made proactively through legislative and administrative means or reactively through the judiciary. It is not a matter of the quantity of rules and regulations and laws, but of quality. There must be eonformity of intent among rules, regulations and laws that seem complimentary. There must be consistency of interpretation and understanding among the various levels of government and review. There must be enforcement mechanisms to assure protection proper to the needs of the resources and to meet the challenges adequate to them.
Over 42,000 Hawaiiarts voted in the first OHA Election, in 1990, choosing nine trustees to work toward the betterment of the Hawaiian people as a whole.
OHA candidates for Kaua'i island seat
Name: Moses K. Keale, Sr. Age: 58 Plaee of birth: Ni'ihau, Hawai'i Occupation: Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Trustee for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau Previous political experienee: 16 years as an OHA Trustee. V\ hat contributions have you made to the Hawaiian
community? Established the OHA Education Foundation. Establishec Native Hawaiian Revolving Loan Fund Program. Helped establish the successful 'Aha 'Opio Leadership Program. Helped establish the successful ' Aha Kūpuna Program. As B/F Chair, established OHA's first financial portfolio. Directed the creation of OHA Board Policies & Procedures Manual. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, fund-
ing, and federal and state trust relationship? OHA needs independent thinkers as trustees who will work for the good of all Hawaiians with no selfish interests. I will eonīinue advocating education, health, housing, a bank to help our people to afford homes, as well as to provide the opportunity for every Hawaiian to address his/her needs. Demand our full entitlements or demand OHA take full legal action against the state. Continue to work with the state & federal jurisdictions to seek an amieahle solution to those issues of conflict between government agencies in order to assure that all Hawaiians receive justice and their full entitlements. 1 What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawaiians enjoy a form of sovereignty through OHA. But OHA is not the final solution. The Hawaiian people should decide the form and the substance of their future and further sovereignty. That decision is not mine to make or offer. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? The blood quantum is a divisive issue. We all realize
that it must eventually be Iowered to fit our changing situations. This ean be accomplished through a graduated formula of planned and timed reduction whieh reflect those changes in our Hawaiian community. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? I have always maintained that education is the key to the long term solution. To establish an OHA bank. Habitat has a very successful affordable home project whieh will help not only homesteaders, but all Hawaiians. OHA ean make that available with low interest if OHA had a finaneial savings loan company. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? OHA is a trust, not a political entity, with three fundamental and pressing aspects — securing of trust assets; investment of trust assets to ensure the trust's continuum, and dehverance of benefits to the beneficiary . Continue advocating for the Hawaiian people.
Name: Eric J. Na'ea, Sr. Age: 33 Plaee of birth: Llhu'e, Kaua'i Occupation: Student Previous political experienee: I am fairly new to this category of political experience. However, I have the unquestioned ability to adapt. What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian communitv?
Recognized by the Provost of Kaua'i Community College, David Iha. as being an example for higher education for the Hawaiian community. Also a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and have recently been honored and recognized by the National Dean's List. Major: Accounting. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is vour vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I want to be an OHA trustee so I ean have OHA audited by an independent auditor, while overseeing all aspects of the audit faimess. Visions for the future of OHA's programs, funding, and federal and state trust relationship needs change!
By auditing all programs in existence. OHA will know if the money is being spent foolishly or not. This will enable an increase in spending and an opening for newer programs. There's a definite need for Hawaiian children to receive funding for sports activities of ehoiee, private after school tutors to help the children catch-up or advance in higher education. Also, fund the Hawaiian immersion program to provide transportation to and from schools. OHA needs to dissolve all trusts. The money and land belongs to the Hawaiian people, not the State and Federal governments. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? My view of sovereignty at present is very dim. The Hawaiian people are separated because of the blood quantum. Hawaiians are already branded like cattle, you're either of good strain or bad! Freedom is in the air for all Hawaiians, not just those who meet the quantum sp>ecifications. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? I understand the frustration the Hawaiians have. Being under 50 percent quanmm means no recognition that the native Hawaiians have. Why quantum was established in the first plaee is ridiculous. By right, you are either Hawaiian or you're not! Example: in Alaska you're either Eskimo or not. no "natives."
Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? Addressing substance abuse, housing and the economy will be very diffīcult. I believe that not everyone is fortunate. For those that need help, OHA should offer assistance. For every problem there's a solution. However, for privacy, no records of substance abuse cases are to be kept on anyone. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how wou!d you act to protect those rights and entitlements? I believe that all Hawaiians have rights and entitlement. OHA should first concentrate on making the Hawaiians one group, instead of two; native Hawaiians and Hawaiians. After becoming one group without the separation that exists now, OHA should help the Hawaiian people gain recognition as a nalion of Hawai'i. In order to accompiish nationhood, OHA should be involved in dissolving the state and federal government trusts and interests toward the Hawaiian people. The Hawaiian p>eople are presently forced under law to be treated as wards of both the state and federal govemments, rather than as a sovereign people.
Over 100,000 native Hawaiians in the state ofHawaVi are eligible to vote in the OHA elections. In the last OHA eleeūon, in 1994, 75,766 Native Hawaiians registered to vote. But 73% ofthose registered actually voted. " ••:•■ ... . ; •- . WmS3ĒĒSm8ĒĒĒĒĒĒt/ĒSmĒĒĒĒĒĒĒĒĒĒĒK/BĒĒĒĒĒĒIĒBmll^^mSammĒKmĒĒSm^^^sBBBm *
Name: Randy S.N. Rego Age: 37 Plaee of birth: San Francisco, California Occupation: Retail store manager Previous political experienee: Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana, Ka Lāhui Ko'olau District Po'o, Ka Lāhui O'ahu Island Po'o, Ka Lāhui Hanalei District Po'o, campaign manager.
V\hat contributions have you made to the Hawaiian communitv? Organized informational workshops on sovereignty on O'ahu and Kaua'i, testified at the State Legislature on Hawaiian issues, involved in conferences with state, federal and other organizations regarding Hawaiian issues and disseminating same to the Hawaiian community. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is vour vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? These are critical times for OHA and the Hawaiian
people. I want to be a part of the effort to use OHA's resources for securing a bright future for Hawaiians. Programs of value need to be continued and new ones initiated. For funding, we must secure and control our rightful assets and cease from being wards of others. Federal and state trust relationship should be eliminated as we would control our land and funds so a trust relationship with the feds and state would not be needed. The future of OHA depends upon the Hawaiian people. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawai'i was a nation and should be again. The Hawaiian people have the right to stand along with the other nations of the world. We must have control over our homeland and our assets. I believe in Hawaiian sovereignty, it is just! Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Yes. It divides our people. When the Hawaiian Nation is reestablished we would make our own laws. I propose a system based on blood quantum (preferenee to full-blooded Hawaiians) and need.
Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? No one person has all the answers. You seek the best advice and information from experts and the people. As an OHA trustee, I ean improve on these eoncerns for the Hawaiians. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Yes. Under state and federal law Hawaiians are limited in what they ean do and protect. For example, I've been involved in a case in Waipake on Kaua'i. Though state constitution and law the protection of Hawaiian rights, the developer has been allowed to destroy water, streams, springs, historic sites, and native Hawaiian forests. To protect Hawaiian rights and entitlements, you must enforce the laws. You don't allow rich developers to make a mockery of it. I propose a native Hawaiian law enforcement agency with the power to enforce our rights and detain and prosecute violators.
OHA candidates for Kaua'i island seat
Name: Warren C.R. Perry Age: 47 Plaee of birth: Honolulu, Hawai'i Occupation: Attomey at Law Previous political experience: None What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian eommunity?
Everyday, for little or no charge, I assist our people with legal matters. Member of: The Royal Order of Kamehameha I since 1981, serve as its legal counsel since 1991; Alu Like, ine. since 1983, served as Chair of the State Board of Directors since 1990; Hawaiian Home Lands Claims Panel since 1992; many, many more. Why do you want to bc an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? I do not want to be a trustee, I am compelled to run because of the present board's laek of leadership, negative attitudes and disrespect for eaeh other and the beneficiaries. (No trustee should ever compare beneficiaries requesting help from OHA as "swine feeding from the OHA trough.") If this wasn't a
critical time for OHA's existence, with an anti-Hawaiian Govemor and a legislature that is facing another financial shortfall, I and the others of Nā Lei Lōkahi would have eontinued to hope for change and let the present tmstees carry on with their nonsense. There needs to be lōkahi within the Board of Tmstees, and without it and the support of Hawaiians, Hawaiian organizations, and the entire community, OHA ean expect more of the negative treatment to whieh it has been subjected, jeopardizing its programs, funding and tmst relationship with the state and federal governments. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? I support it. The Federal, then State governments succeeded to an illegality when eaeh took control of the lands stolen in 1893. Both should correct that illegality by allowing us Hawaiians to control those lands and adjacent oeean areas for uses such as ahupua'a type subsistence living, housing, farming, etc. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Of course it's a problem, whieh ean be resolved through joint efforts to change legislation or eliminated by any sovereign Hawaiian govemment. We should never forget that how mueh elected officials will do for OHA is directly related to
the number of voters that support OHA. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how wouid you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? The first thing that needs to be done is to develop partnerships with Hawaiian and governmental agencies and assess who is doing what, and where the gaps lie. The OHA Master Plan must be updated then implemented either by OHA delivering services or funding service deliveries. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? OHA must advocate - that is one of the specific purposes of the office under Hawai'i Revised Statutes, Section 10-3 (4). Rights and entitlements ean be protected through unified advocacy from 85,000 registered Hawaiian voters, all Hawaiian organizations and the community at large — and OHA should play a major part in this. However, as long as OHA is perceived to be kapulu, it cannot perform this role. That is why it is so important that the board not only have lōkahi, tolerance, respect and aloha, but also be comprised of people who have demonstrated that they ean work together in that way.
OHA candidates for Moloka'i island seat
Name: Robert "Lopaka" Nawahine Mansfield Jr. Age: 52 Plaee of birth: Honolulu, Territory of Hawai'i Occupation: Hotel manager Previous pol it ieal experienee: None What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community?
Most recently and tor approximatelv a year I served on the Ho'ola Lāhui Board, a Kaua'i agency that is actively involved with the health care and welfare of our people on that island. For over two years I have served on OHA's Native Hawaiian Historic Preservation Council, the last year as its chairperson. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? OHA is an instrument with whieh our people are further empowered in the greater community. I view the board of trustees as being representative of our Hawaiian eommunity and being accountable to that community. I envision OHA collaborating with other Hawaiian agencies in order to reduce duplication of efforts. We need to strengthen programs that work and extend more resources to those programs that are weak. OHA must look for ways to be self-sufficient and selfdetermining. OHA must be more astute in looking for grant opportunities in the private sector in conjunction with our own resources. The state entered into a trust
relationship with native Hawaiians as revenues from ceded lands and are concemed and included in this business relationship is a matter of matching funds. It's a recurring obligation and OHA needs to take the ambiguity out of this relationship. This is a matter of constitutionality and the state continues to tamper with it. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? I am a part of the greater eommunity of citizens of the United States of America, there are native Hawaiian issues that have not been dealt with appropriately by
the greater community. I want to have a say in forming every aspect of a Hawaiian sovereign nation. And I would wish this opportunity for every single Hawaiian. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would vou resolve the problem? One must demonstrate a quantity of native blood. However, most of our native population do not have the quantum. I recognize them as a part or our 'ohana and it would be unthinkable to abandon their needs.
OHA should have a role in re-visiting this law and its ramifications and coming up with an alternate proposal. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoncern include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? OHA trustees must actively constantly monitor these issues and respond with resolutions whether through the State Legislature and county councils or working with agencies, including loeal churches. This is an area wherein blood quantum is meaningless in so far as OHA's resources are concerned and yet the issues are very significant to the life of our people. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? There is no other organization with a legal budget and other resources who should make it its business to advocate for the rights and enti-
tlments of our people. First of all we need to make clear to everyone involved just what are the entitlements. There is a need for an educational process at this point. Not only the beneficiaries need to know but the lawmakers and the bureaucracy as well. There has been such a drain on financial resources just for litigation. We should focus on trying to resolve matters through dialogue first and leaving litigation for the last resort.
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OHA Candidates for Moloka'i / Lāna'i island seat ♦
■ Name: Samuel L. Kealoha, Jr. | Age: 48 I Plaee of birth: Honolulu, I Hawai'i l Occupation: OHA ■ Trustee, for Moloka'i/Lana'i, I Taro Farmer I Previous political experiI enee: I am an active citizen of Ka " Lāhui Hawai'i, the native peoi ple's initiative for self-gover-nanee and self-determination
seeking justice for Hawaiians. What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? As a citizen of Ka Lāhui Hawai'i, we have proven that Hawaiians ean be self-determining and ean govern our own affairs. I have supported many OHA programs and projects aimed at meeting the needs and requests of the people — mueh more work remains to be done in all areas. Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding and federal and state trust relationship? In OHA we need to be more creative and work cooperatively with other Hawaiian service organizations to meet the needs of our people. I plan to focus on education and
build more programs whieh promote the current methods of education and the cultural traditions whieh nurtured and contributed to the survival of native Hawaiians, such as kahuna lā'au lapa'au, taro farming, fishpond aquaculture, etc. Funding sources from the State and Federal govemment continue to be a battle ground. Hawaiians have not benefitted from the U.S. imposed policy of state wardship created under the Admission Act of 1959. The state, on the other hand, has benefitted tremendously by utilizing its power as a "trustee" to diminish and obstruct our native trust lands and resources. The Hawaiian people need to use the process of self-deter-minahon to truly resolve these relationships and finally realize "rehabilitation and betterment" of the native people.
What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? In Ka Lāhui we view sovereignty as the ability of a people who share a eommon culture, religion, language, value system, and land base, to exercise controi over their lands and lives, independent of other nations. In order for Native Hawaiian people to exercise control over their lives and lands, they must be self-determined. Is the b!ood quantum Iaw a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? The blood quantum law does not determine who is Hawaiian. It is a legal definition specifying who is legally entitled to Hawaiian land. The ceded lands trust specifies
that native Hawaiians (50% +) are entitled to half of 1 .4 million acres. Upon the recognition of the Hawaiian Nation, Congress' definition should be dissolved. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? OHA must work with service agencies to assist in setting up social improvement programs whieh target our eommunities. I plan to push fōr more self-help housing projects whieh empower our Hawaiian people. I will work with DHHL to plaee Hawaiians on the waiting list onto land. There is also a need for more education on home loan financing. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? OHA is a state agency and must behave as a state agency. OHA must only advocate for Hawaiians based on a eolleetive agenda, not on any one political or personal agenda.OHA must not take the lead in the sovereignty issue, they must at all times remain neutral. OHA shouId be here to assist and help facilitate the sovereignty process only. Our beneficiaries should, collectively, direct OHA on issues regarding native Hawaiian rights and entitlements not individual OHA Trustees or other state agencies such as HSEC.
OHA candidates for Moloka'i / Lana'i island seat
Name: Collette Pi'i'pi'i Machado Age: 45 Plaee of birth: Ho'olehua, Moloka'i Occupation: Educator, Executive Director of Ke Kua'āina Hanauna Hou, community based development non-profit.
Previous political experienee: Hawai'i State Land Use Commissioner, 1975-79; Hawaiian Homelands Commissioner, 1979-81; Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commissioner, 1993- present What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community? Leader, Hui Ala Loa - opening access for subsistence & protecting rural livelihoods on Moloka'i; Organizer, Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana - stopped the bombing and brought the island home for our people; Party, 9 mile Moloka'i pipeline case to protect Hawaiian homesteaders water; Pioneer in community-based development beginning with Puko'o fishpond on Moloka'i Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs, funding, federal and state trust relationship? • Hawaiians have unique sovereign claims and entitlements under the state and federal governments whieh need to be secured now for our mo'opuna. • OHA should work with the native Hawaiian health
care systems to provide prevention screening and supplemental insurance coverage, especially for keiki and kūpuna. • OHA should continue funding of community-based eeonomie development projects. • Our rural communities should be supported by OHA in protecting the natural resources needed for subsistence fishing, hunting and gathering. • Special zoning should be established to protect our wahi pana and cultural resources. • We cannot let the state and federal governments continue control of our Hawaiian national lands and resources. OHA needs to support steps toward a native Hawaiian government to establish a sovereign Hawaiian national land base.
What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? Hawaiians are sovereign. Establishing a native Hawaiian government will enable Hawaiians to exercise sovereignty and control our national lands and resources. A sovereign government should empower eaeh island. Programs such as health, education, and justice might be centralized but management of lands and resources would be delegated to eaeh island. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Native Hawaiians (50% plus) have the highest risk for health, employment and education. 15,000 DHHL beneficiaries are still waiting. DHHL and OHA must fulfill the first trust to native Hawaiians. A second trust for the rest ean be set up from the 80% revenues that don't go to OHA. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem
include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? Substance abuseEducate families about symptoms, do early screening, provide alternative activities HousingOHA and DHHL work together to provide homes. Work with banks to qualify Hawaiian families on DHHL lands. EconomySupport community-based development, where families set up small scale back yard enterprises from Hanalei to Waiahole to Ka'ū.
Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? • We are sovereign people without a sovereign government. Until we set up our own government, OHA ean help secure Hawaiian entitlements and : • Provide funds to communities and practitioners who are taking the lead in exercising rights of access for subsistence, cultural and religious practices. • Support community stewardship and curatorship of Hawaiian natural and cultural resources. • Continue support to Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation to defend Hawaiian kuleana owners, homesteaders and practitioners. • Intervene on projects whieh threaten to damage natural and cultural resources and alter 'ohana way of life. • Oppose all sales of Hawaiian national lands (ceded public lands).
Name: Walter Ritte, Jr. Age: 51 Plaee of birth: Maui Occupation: Hunter Previous political experienee: One of the original trustees for OHA What contributions have you made to the Hawaiian community?
Fought for : (1) Hawaiian access rights as a leader in Hui Ala Loa (2) Kaho'olawe as a leader in the Protect Kaho'olawe 'Ohana (3) Protection of subsistence gathering rights Helped to create: (1) OHA in 1978 Con-Con (2) Traditional fishing management zones Involved in rebuilding traditional Hawaiian fishponds Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee and what is your vision for the future of OHA's programs? Funding? Federal and State trust relationship? To help build our Hawaiian nation by: (1) supporting the platform of Hui Kalai'āina
(2) providing leadership in bringing all of our "resources" (KS/BE, DHHL, QLCC, Queen's, OHA, Alu Like) together. (3) protecting and enhancing our culture, rights, land, >vater, and subsistence way of life. (4) Working with the other OHA trustees. I would like to see OHA stop taking money from the state general funds and stand on its own with no strings attached to the state. I would like to offer my years of experience and knowledge to work for nā kanaka maoli. What is your view of Hawaiian sovereignty? It begins in your soul, then your 'ohana, then your land. Voting and national or international recognition is not that important. We ean begin building our nation today — the Hui Kalai'āina platform is an excellent blueprint. Is the blood quantum law a problem? If you believe it is, how would you resolve the problem? Yes! It was created as a "compromise" by haole U.S. Congressmen. It was not the wish of the Hawaiians. Go to Congress and get rid of the stupid law, so the
kanaka maoli ean become one. Throughout Hawai'i, major issues of eoneem include substance abuse, housing and the economy. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve these concerns for Hawaiians? These are statewide issues and not particular to Hawaiians. We have to work closely with other leaders such as the Legislature, churches etc. We need to reach back to our culture to help find answers and not depend on the great American dream whieh is becoming a nightmare for many of us. Do you think OHA should be involved in advocating for native Hawaiian rights and entitlements? If so, how would you act to protect those rights and entitlements? Yes! Without these rights and entitlements we eannot survive as kanaka maoli. OHA should be "fighting" for our survival in the courts, in the Legislature, in the education system, in our churches. Our legal rights will not be granted to us by the existing system, it's not set up for kanaka maoli.
Native Hawaiians were the dominant ethnic voting block, between 1902 and 1940, eomprising 68 percent of the voter turnout in the Territory of Hawai'i. After WWII Asian and other immigrants were allowed to vote. Since that time, no ethnie group has held the majority vote in Hawai'i