State commission developing a base roll of Native Hawaiians

Thursday, December 8, 2011  

The state-created Native Hawaiian Roll Commission is developing a base roll of Native Hawaiians.

To qualify, a person must be at least 18 years old and must demonstrate “a significant cultural, social or civic connection to the Native Hawaiian community,” The Honolulu Weekly reported. A person must also possess at least 50 percent Native Hawaiian blood, as determined by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, or must be a lineal descendant of someone who met the blood quantum requirement.

The roll could be used if Native Hawaiians gain federal recognition. But a bill to extend the policy of self-determination to Native Hawaiians have faltered in Congress.

The commission was created by Act 195, a law that recognizes Native Hawaiians as the indigenous people of Hawaii.

Get the Story:
Hawaiian Roll Call (The Honolulu Weekly 12/7)