On this episode of Aloha Authentic, host Kamaka Pili welcomes special guest Dr. Keanu Sai, a scholar known internationally for his work on the legal and political history of Hawai‘i. Together, they explore a topic that continues to spark debate: whether Hawai‘i is, in fact, a legal state of the United States.
Dr. Sai breaks down the legal foundations of statehood, explaining what makes a nation recognized and sovereign under international law. He offers insight into Hawai‘i’s unique history as a recognized, independent kingdom prior to the overthrow of its government in 1893 and its controversial annexation by the U.S. in 1898. Through legal documents, treaties, and historical timelines, Dr. Sai raises important questions about whether due process was followed in Hawai‘i’s transition to statehood.
The episode also explores the powerful symbolism behind the Hawaiian flag. While many today are familiar with the red, white, and blue version with the British Union Jack in the upper-left corner flown across the islands, Dr. Sai sheds light on the lesser-known variations of the Hawaiian flag, and debunks the validity of the red, yellow, and green flag often seen as the original flag of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Throughout the conversation, Kamaka and Dr. Sai emphasize the importance of educating ourselves on the history of our home and understanding how that history shapes our present identity.
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