Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 21, Number 8, 1 August 2004 — Setting the record straight [ARTICLE]

Setting the record straight

Akaka Bill does not require global settlement

Recently, detractors of the Akaka Bill have claimed that it requires a "global settlement" of all Native Hawaiian claims in order to get federal recognition. This is not true. The Akaka Bill specifically states, "Nothing in this Act serves as a settlement of any elaim against the United States." [Section 8(c)( 1 ).] The wording is explicit that no claims are being settled by passage of the bill. In addition, settlement of claims is not required to receive federal recognition. The timing of activities outlined in the Akaka Bill is clear: first, federal recognition is granted, then negotiations may begin between Native Hawaiians, the federal government, and the State of Hawai'i. [Section 8(b)( 1 ).]

For the complete text of the Akaka Bill, please visit nativehawaiians.com. If you have questions about the Akaka Bill or other forms of self-determination for Native Hawaiians, feel free to eall our Hawaiian Governance section at 5940219. We are available to answer questions or make presentations with groups wanting more information. This eolumn is d.esigned. to cid.d.ress eommon misconceptions cihout OHA einel its cictivities. If you wouiel like to see a specific question ciddressed, please e-mail kwo@ohci.org, or write to Ka Wai Ola, cittn: "Setting the Record Straight," Office of Haweiiian Affciirs, 711 Kapi'olani Blvd.., Ste. 500, Honolulu, Hi 96813. ■