Biden Raises Hopes For Native Hawaiians Seeking Federal Recognition…But the idea is controversial as many don’t think that establishing a nation within a nation is the best option.
Democratic control of the White House and Congress may breathe new life into efforts to establish a Native Hawaiian government that is recognized by the United States.
Honolulu City Councilwoman Esther Kia’aina, who spent decades working in Washington, D.C., including at the Department of the Interior, describes President Joe Biden’s administration as empathetic and understanding regarding Indigenous self-determination.
If Native Hawaiians want to pursue what’s commonly referred to as “federal recognition,” she said, now would be a good time.
