Hawaii House Bill HCR26

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/22
• Refer: 3/8/22

Caption

Urging The Board Of Education And Department Of Education To Change The Name Of President William Mckinley High School Back To Honolulu High School And Remove The Statue Of President Mckinley From The School Premises.

Impact

The passage of this resolution could have significant implications for state laws concerning education and public symbols in Hawaii. If executed, it would signal a shift towards re-evaluating names and symbols associated with colonial figures, thus promoting the inclusivity of the curriculum that reflects the historical injustices encountered by indigenous peoples. The resolution aligns with broader movements across the United States that seek to dismantle racist symbols and promote racial equity in education. It emphasizes the state's role in fostering historical understanding while addressing issues of representation in public institutions.

Summary

HCR26, a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii, urges the Board of Education and the Department of Education to change the name of President William McKinley High School back to its original name, Honolulu High School, and to remove the statue of President McKinley from the school's premises. This resolution is based on the historical and cultural significance of the school name, which was originally designated in 1865 and reflects a deeper connection to Hawaii's identity and heritage. The name change is also presented as a step towards addressing historical injustices faced by Native Hawaiians. The arguments against the renaming include concerns about the costs involved and the tradition of maintaining historical namesakes in schools.

Contention

This resolution has been met with both support and contention. Supporters argue that renaming the school and removing the statue is essential for healing historical wounds and promoting an inclusive educational environment for Native Hawaiians and other students. On the other hand, opponents contend that changing the name of a school steeped in history could undermine educational traditions and cultural heritage. The process also invites a broader discussion about the implications of statutory changes on public monuments and educational institutions, as it disrupts the status quo and prompts stakeholders to re-examine their values and commitments to equity.