The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) holds a unique and vital role in the State of Hawaiʻi. Established in 1978 through a constitutional convention, OHA was created to serve as a semi-autonomous state agency with the mission of improving the betterment of conditions for Hawaiians. This mission is codified in Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 10, which outlines OHA’s purpose, responsibilities, and obligations. The fulfillment of these duties is a legal mandate and a moral imperative to assist all Hawaiians now and to come.
The Legal Framework for HRS § 10
HRS § 10 delineates the foundational purpose and functions of OHA by providing OHA with the authority to manage resources and programs aimed at benefiting Hawaiians. Central to OHA’s responsibilities is the management of a pro rata portion of all funds derived from the Public Land Trust, which shall be held and used solely as a public trust for the betterment of the conditions of Hawaiians. OHA must administer all trust resources effectively while also advocating for the rights of Hawaiians. Failure to fulfill these duties undermines the trust established between OHA and Hawaiian beneficiaries.
In addition, HRS § 10-6 charges OHA with developing and continually updating a strategic plan. Under OHA’s 15-year Mana i Mauli Ola Strategic Plan, OHA fulfills HRS § 10-6 by affecting change in the areas of education, health, housing, and economics for the protection and preservation of Hawaiian families, culture, and ʻāina. In recent years, OHA has supported initiatives for traditional healing practices, the protection of iwi kūpuna, the revitalization of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, and has been a vocal advocate for the protection of sacred places such as Mauna a Wākea. These initiatives emphasize the need to protect our language, culture, and ʻāina for the betterment of our people as an integral aspect of our mandate.
Addressing Socioeconomic Disparities and Health Disadvantages
As Hawaiians, we are forced to endure socioeconomic disparities and health disadvantages that stem from historical injustices, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, which led to our ongoing colonization. OHA’s duty under HRS Section 10 includes addressing these inequities through targeted programs and initiatives.
For example, OHA has helped fund 17 Hawaiian-focused charter schools to increase access to education for Hawaiian students, supported health programs tailored to the specific needs of our communities, and provided grants to organizations working on affordable housing solutions. By fulfilling these responsibilities, OHA plays a crucial role in empowering Hawaiians and improving our quality of life.
Accountability and Transparency
To effectively fulfill our duties, OHA must operate with the highest standards of accountability and transparency. As a steward of public trust resources, we are obligated to ensure that these funds are used efficiently and ethically. This includes undergoing regular audits and actively engaging with the lāhui to understand what is needed while also providing clear and accessible reports on our activities and expenditures. Addressing these issues is essential for maintaining the trust of our people. By adhering to our statutory obligations and prioritizing accountability, we strengthen our role as effective advocates and stewards.
OHA has a profound responsibility under HRS Section 10 to advance the betterment of conditions for all Hawaiians. This duty encompasses addressing socioeconomic disparities, health disadvantages, the preservation of our culture, and managing trust resources with integrity. By fulfilling these responsibilities, we not only honor our legal obligations but also contribute to the restoration of justice and equity for all Hawaiians. As we move forward, we must remain steadfast in our mission, ensuring that a thriving and empowered lāhui endures for generations now and to come.
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