Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 24, Number 10, 1 ʻOkakopa 2007 — Kau Inoa challenge [ARTICLE]

Kau Inoa challenge

I am writing in response to the letter to the editor submitted by Thurston Twigg-Smith (KWO, 9/07), who writes: " I assure you we are not trying to be harmful to those of Hawaiian blood." I, being a Native Hawaiian, respond by stating that despite your assurance to me, I feel I have been harmed by you and your colleagues. Second, you write: "We just think Native Hawaiians and the interraeial families that make Hawai'i a treasured plaee to live are making a tragic mistake to destroy the welcoming spirit that has prevailed here." I believe that it is not only the Native Hawaiians and the interracial families that have made Hawai'i a treasured plaee to live, but also the non-natives and the mono-racial families. I feel your statements separate the people of Hawai'i, i.e. Hawaiians and interraeial famihes vs. non-Hawaiians. Finally, as a Kau Inoa registrant what is most important to me is that I was invited to participate in this process, having qualifred by being Hawahan. You unfortunately don't qualify, and you therefore are not invited to participate in this process. I truly hope someday you are invited, but until you get the invitation, I frnd it rude to invite one's self and your guests at this time. Paul K.C. Hoe, Jr. Via the lnternet

OHA reserves the right to edit all letters for length, defamatory and libelous material, and other objectionable content, and reserves the right not to print any submission. All letters must be typed, signed and not exceed 200 words. Letters cannot be published unless they include a telephone contact for verification. Send letters to Ka Wai Ola, 71 1 Kapi'olani Blvd., Ste. 500, Honolulu, Hl 96813, or email kwo@oha.org.

KA LEO KAIĀULU • LETTERS T0 THE EDIT0R