Post #327410 by Kaiwaza on Wed, Aug 22, 2007 12:56 PM

I debated with myself whether to even respond to this thread, since I'm "over" the whole sovereignty thing, and I come from a background of having been a heavy supporter and active on this issue. It's easy to paint things as the "evil" Westerners vs. poor innocent "indigenous people" Not doubt, all sorts of injustices occured (as they have throughout all history)and we Americans have benefited and many natives have suffered. But as others have pointed out, it's not so simple. Plus, at some point, I'm sorry, but I'm through taking responsibility for something I didn't do. If you want something fixed YOU need to fix it...that's just the way the world works.
I've been hearing twenty different Hawaiian groups claiming to be the "legitimate" Hawaiian government argue amongst themselves for the past 30 years about what they want. There is great division amongst the native Hawaiian people on many issues concerning them and there doesn't seem to be any consensus. I was very excited over the Akaka Bill FINALLY getting this far, think it was EXACTLY what people have been asking for for 30 years..a bill to set in motion federal recognition and begin the development of some governing body yet to be determined. But, alas, the native population continues to against it for various reasons. I feel this opportunity may NEVER come again in our lifetimes and I'm am truly appalled at the native lack of support. It's very disheartening.But, for me, it's an ending...I'm "officially" over it.
Another bottom line that's an unpopular statement, but I think true. When the monarchy was overthrown, Queen Liliuokalani specifically told her people not to take up arms and fight. She felt the U.S. would reinstate her when they learned of the U.S. Navy's involvement, backing up the Hawaii "Committee of Safety.' Well, that was a big mistake. When you want your country, your rights..you fight and die for them. I don't hear about any Hawaiians willing to actually fight and die for their sovereignty....they can't even agree on a good bill.
Hawaiians were absolutely screwed over, as many peoples have been...Hawaii was too important of a location in an imperialistic world and if it hadn't been the U.S., it would have been U.K. or Japan. They both had interests. Hawaii's monarchy (notably King Kalakaua) put Hawaii in a dangerous position financially by wiping out the sandalwood altogether, building up an incredible national debt and eventually lead to U.S. financial/military interests predominating. He did great things for the culture, but very bad for the nation politically. And total he is heralded as a hero. He was a bit of an imperialist himself, wanting to unite several nations as a "South Sea Kingdom". which did not happen.
Obviously, it's up to the Hawaiians of today as far as any sovereignty movement goes and the way things have gone, I'm not holding my breath anymore or attending any more support marches, etc., etc. If it's to be, it's up to you.