Honolulu (April 14, 2016) – Statement of Office of Hawaiian Affairs Ka Pouhana (CEO) Kamana‘opono Crabbe on Sen. Brian Schatz’s statement on Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument:
“The Office of Hawaiian Affairs thanks Sen. Schatz for advocating to elevate the role of Native Hawaiians in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. For a decade, OHA has been advocating for co-trustee status to ensure the preservation of Native Hawaiian cultural and historic sites in the monument. This advocacy would help OHA more effectively protect the traditional and customary rights and practices of Native Hawaiians and preserve the natural and cultural resources for future generations of Hawaiians and non-Hawaiians alike.
“We look forward to working with the Senator, Obama Administration, the state and others as we continue to seek co-trusteeship for OHA.”
Sen. Schatz’s statement can be found here: http://www.schatz.senate.gov/press-releases/schatz-urges-administration-to-engage-with-hawaii-constituents-on-papahanaumokuakea-marine-national-monument
