LIHUE — In response to protests against the Na‘i Aupuni election for Native Hawaiian self-governance, the nonprofit organizing the voting process is emphasizing that the end result is not predetermined. Protesters are concerned that the planned constitutional convention in Honolulu
LIHUE — In response to protests against the Na‘i Aupuni election for Native Hawaiian self-governance, the nonprofit organizing the voting process is emphasizing that the end result is not predetermined.
Protesters are concerned that the planned constitutional convention in Honolulu this winter will result in federal recognition. However, according to Na‘i Aupuni, decisions about pathways to sovereignty will be made by the elected delegates, of which there are 200 candidates vying for 40 seats.
“Leadership is about bringing your voice to the table and advocating your views to other leaders — not walking away from the table,” states a Na‘i Aupuni email. “Na‘i Aupuni has set up a process whereby elected leaders can discuss various options and issues to find a consensus so that the Native Hawaiian community may proceed forward in unity.”
The candidates’ perspectives are broad-based and most of them say that they are open-minded and look forward to debating the issues with the other delegates, according to Na‘i Aupuni.
“Proceed, just as did those who came before with strength and determination — and vote — even though others have attempted to discourage you or discredit a diverse group of 200 leaders who have bravely risen to the call as committed, caring and conscientious candidates who are asking for your vote,” the email states.
In response to assertions by protesters that the list of voters is flawed and does not represent a sufficient percentage of Hawaiians, Na‘i Aupuni leadership said that the voter roll includes 89,000 Hawaiians, which includes a significant portion of adult Hawaiians who reside in Hawaii.
“It is unrealistic to believe that a significantly larger list will ever be developed,” the release states. “No group, including the protesters, has offered an alternative plan to achieve Hawaiian self-determination or form an effective government.”
The 30-day voting period ends Nov. 30. Election results are expected to be announced Dec. 1.
“This is an historic election for Hawaiians to determine if a reorganized Hawaiian government will be formed,” said Kuhio Asam, president of the private nonprofit Na‘i Aupuni.
Mauna Kea Trask, a Native Hawaiian who is also the Kauai County attorney, said the Na‘i Aupuni election, in his opinion, marks the most pragmatic approach to sovereignty so far, and has the potential to protect and strengthen Native Hawaiian cultural and education programs already in place.
“They’re afraid to lose what they don’t have,” Trask said of those who oppose the process, “and they don’t understand that with failure to act we will lose what we do have.”
Kauai’s eligible voters — those who are Native Hawaiian, at least 18 years of age and certified by the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission — have a chance to elect two candidates to seats on the 40-member delegation.
Kauai’s candidates include Samuel Aea, a 56-year-old business owner; Kanani Kagawa Fu, Kauai County’s 34-year-old assistant to the housing director; Mai Ling Haumea, 24; Linda Ka’auwai-Iwamoto, a 72-year-old former homestead assistant for the Department of Hawaiian Homelands; and Kuuleialoha Santos, a 40-year-old descendent of salt makers in Hanapepe.
