"Criticism of the Akaka Bill for native Hawaiian recognition has focused mainly on the concerns of the political right, which considers the legislation race-based preferential treatment.

But there is also opposition from many Hawaiians, especially nationalists who believe the bill would kill chances of restoring the independent Hawaiian kingdom that existed before the 1893 overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani.

This group was rankled more than ever by amendments advanced by Sen. Daniel Akaka at the behest of the Obama administration to give Hawaiians similar legal standing to Indian tribes, a comparison that left many Hawaiians insulted.

"Hawaiians are not a tribe," one sovereignty group said. "They are a nation—and their nation is occupied."

That sentiment is deserving of respect as the Akaka Bill moves closer to passage now that Gov. Linda Lingle is back on board after the latest tweaks.

It's not for me to tell Hawaiians what they should want for themselves. But as a practical matter, there's no realistic chance of Hawaii ever becoming independent from the United States, whether the Akaka Bill passes or not."

Get the Story:
Akaka Bill, not nationhood, protects Hawaiians' future (The Honolulu Star Advertiser 7/14)

Native Hawaiian Bill:
H.R.862 | S.381

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