Hawaiian sovereignty movement

A movement advocating for the sovereignty of Hawaii

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement is a political and cultural campaign seeking some form of sovereignty for the Hawaiian Islands. This movement encompasses a range of goals, from complete independence from the United States to various forms of self-governance or autonomy within the U.S. framework. The movement is rooted in the history of Hawaii, particularly the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 and the subsequent annexation by the United States in 1898.

Historical Background

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement traces its origins to the late 19th century when the Kingdom of Hawaii was overthrown by a group of American and European businessmen with the support of the U.S. government. Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii, was deposed in 1893, leading to the establishment of a provisional government and eventually the Republic of Hawaii. In 1898, Hawaii was annexed by the United States through the Newlands Resolution, despite opposition from many Native Hawaiians.

Key Events

Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom

The overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom occurred on January 17, 1893, when a group of American and European residents in Hawaii, backed by the U.S. military, forced Queen Liliʻuokalani to abdicate. This event marked the end of the Hawaiian monarchy and the beginning of a provisional government led by Sanford B. Dole.

Annexation by the United States

In 1898, the United States formally annexed Hawaii through the Newlands Resolution, despite the opposition of many Native Hawaiians. This annexation was part of a broader U.S. expansionist policy during the late 19th century.

Statehood and the Apology Resolution

Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959. In 1993, the U.S. Congress passed the Apology Resolution, formally apologizing for the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and acknowledging that the annexation was done without the consent of the Native Hawaiian people.

Goals of the Movement

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement is diverse, with various groups advocating for different outcomes. Some of the primary goals include:

• Complete Independence: Some groups seek full independence from the United States, restoring the Hawaiian Kingdom as a sovereign nation.
• Federal Recognition: Other groups advocate for federal recognition of Native Hawaiians as a distinct indigenous people, similar to Native American tribes, which would grant them certain rights and a degree of self-governance.
• Cultural Revitalization: Many within the movement focus on the revitalization of Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions as a means of asserting sovereignty and identity.

Key Organizations

Several organizations play a significant role in the Hawaiian sovereignty movement, including:

• Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA): Established in 1978, OHA is a semi-autonomous state agency responsible for improving the well-being of Native Hawaiians.
• Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi: A Native Hawaiian initiative that seeks to establish a sovereign Hawaiian nation.
• Nation of Hawaiʻi: Led by Dennis "Bumpy" Kanahele, this group advocates for Hawaiian independence and operates a self-declared sovereign community.

Contemporary Issues

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement continues to face challenges, including legal, political, and social obstacles. Debates over land rights, cultural preservation, and political representation remain central to the movement. The question of how to achieve sovereignty, whether through legal means, political advocacy, or cultural revival, is a topic of ongoing discussion among activists and scholars.

Also see

• Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom
• Annexation of Hawaii
• Apology Resolution
• Office of Hawaiian Affairs
• Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act