Statement of Office of Hawaiian Affairs Ka Pouhana (CEO) Kamana‘opono Crabbe on Sen. Brian Schatz’s proposal on Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument:
“The Office of Hawaiian Affairs thanks Sen. Schatz for supporting the elevation of OHA as co-trustee of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees recently approved conditionally supporting the expansion. Sen. Schatz’s proposal is in line with our board’s position. We thank him for his recognition of the need to protect the cultural and environmental assets within the monument. The monument is a special place for Native Hawaiians. By becoming a co- trustee, OHA will ensure that Native Hawaiian interests are represented at all levels of management of the monument.
“We agree with Sen. Schatz’s recommendation that more public engagement be sought prior to reaching a final decision.”
