Akaka bill and "thorny issue" of blood quantum


The Star-Bulletin reports on a legislative briefing yesterday re the Akaka bill, at which was raised the issue of blood quantum in relation to federal recognition. The Akaka bill does not deal with blood quantum, and "leaves the definition of who is Hawaiian to the native governing entity that would be formed under provisions of the bill. However, the 1920 federal Hawaiian Homes law provides that a person must have 50 percent Hawaiian blood to qualify for homestead leases. And there is a general belief that the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands would be folded into the new native government." Additionally, the revenues from so-called "ceded lands" that go to OHA must be used for those with 50 percent blood quantum.

"[Sen.] Hanabusa also questioned if the situation would create two classes of Hawaiians. Bennett said that was possible, and that it was an important question that would have to be defined in law after the negotiations conclude."

Well, there's already two classes of Hawaiians, because blood quantum was created to divide Hawaiians against each other and diminish the eligibility pool over time so that land would eventually revert. The question is if and how the Akaka bill or whatever "governing entity" is approved by the Department of Interior will deal with it.


Posted: Fri - April 15, 2005 at 07:37 AM    
   
 
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Published On: Dec 27, 2005 10:12 PM
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