THE SENATE	S.R. NO.	12
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2023
STATE OF HAWAII

SENATE RESOLUTION

REQUESTING THE OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN HAWAIIAN CULTURAL CENTERS WITHIN THE STATE.

WHEREAS, native Hawaiian culture is the foundation of all aspects of life in Hawaii; and

WHEREAS, this culture influences Hawaii's government, businesses, tourism industry, families, and individuals; and

WHEREAS, despite the prevalence of this cultural foundation, there are no public spaces dedicated to the practice and perpetuation of Hawaiian culture; and

WHEREAS, Hawaiian cultural centers may serve as places where residents and visitors may learn about Hawaiian culture, history, tradition, and practices; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Thirty-second Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2023, that no later than           , the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is requested to establish and maintain no fewer than Hawaiian cultural centers within the State; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is requested to ensure that each Hawaiian cultural center:

(1) Is dedicated to Hawaiian culture and history, emphasizing the particular geographic location of the center;

(2) Contains both static and interactive displays and exhibits;

(3) Offers classes in Hawaiian chanting, dancing, music, language, and other cultural practices on a regular, ongoing basis; and

(4) Serves as a place where the public may gather and hold celebrations; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular sessions of 2024 and 2026, the Board of Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is requested to submit to the Legislature reports that include:

(1) The status of the Office's attempts to honor the requests contained in this measure;

(2) The estimated costs of the planning, design, and construction of Hawaiian cultural centers;

(3) Any proposed legislation; and

(4) Any other relevant information; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

OFFERED BY:

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Report Title:

Office of Hawaiian Affairs; Hawaiian Cultural Centers