Designating March 10 As Enewetak Atoll (marshall Islands) Liberation Day.
Impact
By designating this day, Hawaii aims to honor the heritage and history of the people of Enewetak Atoll and their descendants now residing in Hawaii. The resolution reflects an effort to recognize and validate the struggles faced by the Marshallese community, including issues related to nuclear contamination and the resettlement of displaced individuals. This recognition through a formal state holiday can foster greater awareness and education regarding the historical events that have shaped the lives of these communities.
Summary
Senate Resolution 172 seeks to designate March 10 as 'Enewetak Atoll (Marshall Islands) Liberation Day' in Hawaii. This resolution acknowledges the historical significance of the day, commemorating the liberation of Enewetak Atoll from the Japanese military in 1944 during World War II. The resolution highlights the long-standing impacts of wartime actions, including the suffering and displacement experienced by the local population due to military operations and subsequent nuclear testing conducted by the United States in the region.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR172 appears to be positive, advocating for cultural acknowledgment and memorialization of past events impacting the Marshallese. Supporters of the resolution likely view it as a necessary step toward recognizing the historical injustices and hardships endured by the inhabitants of Enewetak Atoll. This designation is celebrated among the Marshallese diaspora, particularly those who live in Hawaii, fostering a sense of community and pride.
Contention
While the bill is generally supported, there could be underlying tensions in public awareness regarding the United States' historical involvement in the Pacific and the legacy of nuclear testing. Discussions around SR172 may raise questions about the accountability of the U.S. concerning its actions in the region and contribute to dialogues around ongoing health and environmental concerns faced by individuals affected by nuclear testing. Nevertheless, the resolution is primarily focused on celebrating liberation and the community's resilience.
Requesting The State To Begin Planning To Collaborate With Partners In Japan To Appropriately Recognize The Eightieth Anniversary Of The End Of World War Ii, Including The Atomic Bombings And Lives Lost In Japan And Hawaii Throughout The War, And Reaffirm A Commitment To Ensuring These Tragedies Are Never Repeated.
Requesting The State Foundation On Culture And The Arts To Begin Planning To Collaborate With Partners In Japan To Appropriately Recognize The Eightieth Anniversary Of The End Of World War Ii, Including The Atomic Bombings And Lives Lost In Japan And Hawaii Throughout The War, And Reaffirm A Commitment To Ensuring These Tragedies Are Never Repeated.
Encouraging The Hawaii Sister-state Committee To Consider The Initiation Of A Sister-state Relationship Between Hawaii And The Spanish Province Of The Balearic Islands.
Urging The Department Of Law Enforcement, Fire Departments And Police Departments Of Each County, Humane Societies In Each County, And Media Organizations Throughout The State To Collaborate To Create And Disseminate Public Service Announcements To Highlight The Dangers Of, And Advocate Against The Use Of, Illegal Fireworks In Order To Protect The Health And Safety Of The Community, Pets, And Wildlife.
Formally apologizing for the nuclear legacy of the United States in the Republic of the Marshall Islands and affirming the importance of free association between the Government of the United States and the Government of the Marshall Islands.