Mission StatementOur mission is to honor, preserve, and advance the cultural heritage, economic vitality, and sovereign rights of Native Americans and Native Hawaiians. We draw from the profound historical connections between our peoples forged through centuries of maritime trade, whaling, and the fur trade industries. These shared experiences of colonialism and displacement form the foundation of our collective journey toward cultural and economic empowerment, a journey that we invite you to join.We recognize and celebrate the significant presence of Native American peoples in the Kingdom of Hawai‘i. This includes the Wampanoag, Pequot, Narragansett, and other Northeastern tribal whalers who made Hawai‘i their home in the 19th century, as well as the Chinook, Haida, and other Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest who arrived through the maritime trade networks of the Hudson’s Bay Company and the North West Company. These early exchanges laid the groundwork for lasting cultural ties.The shared history of colonial dispossession, the suppression of language and culture through parochial education, and the ongoing struggles for land and sovereignty bind our peoples in an enduring struggle for self-determination. We draw significant parallels between the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and the forced relocation of Native American nations onto reservations, both of which resulted in the systemic disenfranchisement of our communities. By recognizing these parallels, we seek to amplify our collective voices in the fight for justice and cultural restoration.At the heart of our mission is promoting sustainable economic opportunities for Native Hawaiians. Informed by the success of Indian gaming enterprises, we advocate for innovative financial models that can empower Native Hawaiians to reclaim their monetary sovereignty. These models offer a proven path toward economic independence, which can fund cultural preservation, educational advancement, and community development. We are committed to a future where economic empowerment is a reality for all Native Hawaiians.Our commitment extends to fostering unique and mutually enriching cultural exchanges between Native American and Native Hawaiian communities. Our distinct events and initiatives promote greater understanding, cooperation, and economic collaboration. We envision a future where Native American tourism to Hawai‘i, guided by shared histories and traditions, becomes a cornerstone of cultural exchange and economic development.Our work is committed to preserving, promoting, and promulgating the rich cultural histories and identities of Native Americans and Native Hawaiians. Through education, advocacy, and cultural revitalization, we strive to uplift our communities, support the reclamation of our rights, and ensure that the next generation inherits the strength of our collective heritage.As stewards of this vision, we invite you to join us in reclaiming, restoring, and revitalizing our cultural legacies and economic independence. Together, we can shape a future that honors the past, empowers the present, and secures a thriving future for all Native American and Native Hawaiian communities. Your participation is crucial in this collective effort.
