The U.S. Department of Interior wrapped up its series of hearings last week in Hawaii, but the conversation that’s been started is far from over. A group of organizers dedicated to Hawaiian independence called Movement for Aloha No Ka ‘?ina or MANA, gathered in downtown Honolulu yesterday to discuss the issue of sovereignty. MANA organizer ‘Ilima Long says the group doesn’t want federal recognition and argues the Hawaiian kingdom still exists under international law.
University of Hawai‘i at M?noa Professor Jonathan Kamakawiwo'ole Osorio was among a couple dozen supporters. He says he’s disappointed that despite the overwhelming testimony opposing federal recognition, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs continues to support a government to government relationship.
The Department of Interior hearings continue later this month on the mainland and will accept public comment until August 19. For more information on MANA or to read their entire statemet, visit their website.
