HONOLULU (KHON2) – The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii announced it stands in solidarity with Kamehameha Schools, following the attack on its admissions policy.
As a private institution, Kamehameha Schools is funded entirely by the trust of KS founder, Princess Pauahi Bishop, who gave her land to be utilized for the future benefit of Native Hawaiian keiki.
While receiving no taxpayer dollars, Kamehameha Schools honors the history of Hawaiian culture and the Will that Princess Pauahi left for her “Pua,” (Keiki).
“We understand the complicated and painful history of the United States against Indigenous people and cultures and the ways in which Native Hawaiians are adversely impacted, especially in their homeland,” Salmah Y. Rizvi, ACLU of Hawaii Executive Director, said. “Kamehameha Schools serves an important role in preparing future generations of Native Hawaiians, through education, to lead and restore the well-being of Princess Pauahi’s people.”
ACLU said they support and defend the rights of Native Hawaiians under United States law, acknowledging that Native Hawaiians are indigenous people who have never relinquished their sovereignty.
“At this time, before any lawsuit has been filed, we urge all Americans to learn about the historical and present-day injustices committed against Native Hawaiians, including the U.S.’s yet-unfulfilled commitment to achieve reconciliation with the Native Hawaiian people,” said Kāwika Riley, ACLU of Hawaii Board member, referring to Public Law 103-150, signed into law in 1993, in which the United States apologized for its role in the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and committed to reconciliation with Native Hawaiians.
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Officials said the ACLU of Hawaii will remain supportive of Kamehameha Schools.