Posted on: Monday, August 30, 2004

Forum on Akaka bill precedes gathering

Advertiser Staff

The issue of Native Hawaiian self-governance through federal recognition will be the focus tomorrow at a forum advancing the annual conference of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.

Wednesday is the official opening day for the conference at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Community development will be spotlighted Friday.

The discussion at tomorrow's federal recognition forum, 2:45 to 6 p.m., will cover the present version of the Akaka bill, the history of federal policy toward native nations, Supreme Court cases and sovereignty protection initiatives.

The conference assembles policy makers, cultural practitioners and representatives of community organizations and will cover topics ranging from cultural preservation to economic development.

Among the confirmed speakers are U.S. Sen. Dan Inouye and U.S. Reps. Neil Abercrombie and Ed Case.

Mayoral candidates will have a forum at 11:45 a.m.Thursday.

The Sept. 3 Native Votes Luncheon will celebrate Native Hawaiian public servants and air ideas on increasing Native Hawaiian community involvement in the political process.

A "Native Voices Concert" will close the event at 6 p.m. Sept. 3 on the Hilton's Lagoon Green.

The council is a nonprofit organization that coordinates informational events and provides technical assistance and training opportunities to Native Hawaiian communities.

Information: 521-5011 or online: www.hawaiiancouncil.org.