June 12, 2026 — “The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) remains committed to protecting Papahānaumokuākea as a puʻuhonua where native species, ecosystems, and cultural practices can recover and thrive,” said OHA Board Chair Kaialiʻi Kahele. “In supporting the expansion of the monument in 2016, OHA joined a broad coalition of Native Hawaiian leaders, community organizations, scientists, fishermen, and government partners who carefully considered how best to safeguard these waters for future generations. The current boundaries reflect years of engagement and a locally informed consensus that balanced ecological protection, cultural stewardship, and community interests.”
“At a time when Native Hawaiian communities and their allies are advancing initiatives to strengthen stewardship of the lands, waters, and resources we have cared for since time immemorial, it is important that we stand together in support of efforts that protect the health and abundance of these places for generations yet to come. Papahānaumokuākea is one example of a broader commitment shared across Hawaiʻi—to leave our natural and cultural resources in as good, or better, condition than those entrusted to us. OHA believes that commitment remains as important today as ever and sees no compelling reason to revisit protections that have been thoughtfully established through years of collaboration and consensus-building.”
