Hawaiian sovereignty movement

Definition

The Hawaiian sovereignty movement is a collective effort advocating for the restoration of the Hawaiian Kingdom and self-determination for Native Hawaiians. This movement emerged as a response to historical injustices, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 and subsequent annexation by the United States, aiming to reclaim rights, land, and political status for Hawaiians. The movement intertwines with broader discussions about post-war social changes, models of self-determination, and the unique ethnic diversity found in Hawaii.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hawaiian sovereignty movement gained momentum in the late 20th century, particularly after the 1970s, as awareness of historical injustices grew among Native Hawaiians.
2. Key events include the formation of organizations like Ka Lahui Hawaii and the Sovereignty Advisory Commission, which advocate for Native Hawaiian rights and land restoration.
3. Cultural practices and language revitalization are integral to the movement, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity in reclaiming sovereignty.
4. Legal battles have been part of the movement, with cases addressing land claims and political recognition of Native Hawaiians seeking restoration of their rights.
5. The movement has led to various models for self-governance proposals, including statehood alternatives and federal recognition of Native Hawaiian rights.

Review Questions

• How did historical events influence the emergence of the Hawaiian sovereignty movement?
  • Historical events such as the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 and the subsequent annexation by the United States significantly influenced the emergence of the Hawaiian sovereignty movement. These events instilled a sense of injustice among Native Hawaiians, who viewed these actions as violations of their rights and sovereignty. The movement seeks to address these historical grievances while advocating for recognition and self-determination.
• Discuss how cultural identity plays a role in the Hawaiian sovereignty movement and its objectives.
  • Cultural identity is vital to the Hawaiian sovereignty movement as it reinforces the connection between Native Hawaiians and their land, traditions, and history. The term 'Aloha ʻĀina' embodies this relationship, highlighting the importance of caring for one's homeland. Through cultural revitalization efforts, including language preservation and traditional practices, the movement aims to empower Native Hawaiians and emphasize their rightful claim to self-determination.
• Evaluate the various proposals for self-governance within the Hawaiian sovereignty movement and their implications for Native Hawaiian rights.
  • Proposals for self-governance within the Hawaiian sovereignty movement range from full independence to federal recognition and autonomy. Each proposal carries different implications for Native Hawaiian rights; for example, federal recognition could provide certain legal protections while maintaining ties with the U.S., whereas full independence would assert complete autonomy. Evaluating these proposals involves understanding their potential impact on cultural preservation, political representation, and economic opportunities for Native Hawaiians, shaping future generations' relationship with their identity and land.

Related terms

Hawaiian Kingdom: The independent monarchy that existed in Hawaii from 1810 until its overthrow in 1893, recognized internationally as a sovereign state.

Aloha ʻĀina: A Hawaiian term meaning 'love of the land,' which encapsulates the connection to land and culture central to the sovereignty movement.

Self-determination: The principle that a people have the right to determine their own political status and governance, a core tenet of the Hawaiian sovereignty movement.