HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Four prominent figures from Hawaiʻi have journeyed to Washington D.C. to share their perspectives on Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander issues at the White House.
Senators Dru Mamo Kanuha and Jarrett Keohokalole, Representative Darius K. Kila and Honolulu City Council Vice Chair Esther Kiaʻāina are participating in the inaugural White House Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (NHPI) Convening.
This significant event aims to bring together a diverse group, including NHPI community advocates, private sector leaders, elected officials, federal appointees, and artists.
The gathering celebrates NHPI cultures and achievements while spotlighting the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing key concerns impacting these communities.
Rep. Kila has been an advocate for Native Hawaiian intellectual property rights.
“We recognize the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to address key issues affecting Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders," said Rep. Kila. "But beyond acknowledgments, this meeting offers a crucial opportunity to tackle pressing issues head-on—protecting indigenous intellectual property and preserving our cultural identity.”
He also addressed concerns about increasing gun violence on the Leeward Coast, urging a comprehensive response to ensure the safety of residents.
Sen. Kanuha is the Senate Majority Leader, and he expressed his pride in representing his community at the White House.
“As a proud Native Hawaiian, it’s a deep honor to represent our community at the White House, and to bring the voices of our people into this important national dialogue,” he said. “This convening is a vital opportunity to address the unique challenges our people face while celebrating our cultural legacy.”
Sen. Keohokalole, Co-Chair of the Legislature’s Native Hawaiian Caucus, also spoke on the significance of the event.
“It is a privilege to speak at the White House on issues facing Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders,” he noted. “Our communities deserve a voice, and our issues require creative and collaborative solutions. Mahalo to the Biden-Harris Administration for the invitation and their ongoing commitment to improving the lives of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.”
Kiaʻāina, who has extensive experience working in Washington, D.C., said she felt proud of the NHPI leaders engaging at the federal level.
“I’m heartened and proud of the breadth of the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community and political leaders who are engaging at the federal level on issues that are important to our communities,” Kiaʻāina said. She will be part of a panel titled “Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Trailblazers.”
The legislators and Kiaʻāina will participate in discussions with community leaders, federal agencies, and panels focused on critical issues facing NHPI communities.
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The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI), established by President Joe Biden through Executive Order 14031, is dedicated to advancing equity, justice, and opportunity for these communities.