Hawaii Senate Bill SR83

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/4/22
• Passed: 4/5/22

Caption

Urging The United States Government To Support Co-stewardship Of Wahi Kupuna With The Native Hawaiian Community With Regards To Lands Under Federal, State, And Local Government Authority.

Impact

The resolution acknowledges that wahi kūpuna are severely threatened by development and that they lack the same level of funding and support compared to other natural resources. By promoting co-stewardship, the bill aims to enhance the preservation and management of these culturally significant sites, ensuring that Native Hawaiian communities can actively participate in decisions affecting their ancestral lands. This involvement is envisioned to foster better resource management while also advocating for cultural awareness and respect for Native Hawaiian traditions.

Summary

Senate Resolution 83 (SR83) urges the United States government to support the co-stewardship of wahi kūpuna with the Native Hawaiian community, particularly concerning lands that fall under federal, state, and local government authority. Wahi kūpuna, meaning ancestral lands, are significant to the Native Hawaiian community, serving not only as physical locations but also as cultural repositories that foster identity and continue the transmission of culture and knowledge across generations. As such, SR83 seeks recognition of these lands' importance and advocates for their protection and stewardship.

Contention

One notable aspect of SR83 is the request for collaboration between the Native Hawaiian community and federal, state, and local authorities in developing resource management plans. This approach highlights the bill's potential to address historical imbalances in land management and funding. However, it may also raise concerns among some stakeholders regarding the integration of native perspectives into governmental frameworks, as well as the broader implications for land use policies and development projects that could impact wahi kūpuna.

Legislative support

The resolution has received unanimous support in committee, passing with 3 out of 3 votes. This bipartisan backing reflects a growing acknowledgment of the significance of wahi kūpuna and the importance of collaborative stewardship involving the Native Hawaiian community. It is seen as a forward step in recognizing the rights and traditional practices of Native Hawaiians within the framework of state and federal governance.