Group Remains Committed to Native Hawaiian Convention Processes

Nā Makalehua candidates. Photos credit Naʻi Aupuni.

Nā Makalehua and their supporters – a group of young Native Hawaiians who sought candidacy in the Na‘i Aupuni elections – announced that they will move forward to the convention and discussions of Hawaiian self-governance.

The announcement comes after Na‘i Aupuni announced its termination of the Native Hawaiian election process amid delays caused by ongoing litigation.

Nā Makalehua issued a statement saying the group will go forward with a four-week-long ‘aha or constitutional convention in February.

The group of 19 former candidates from Hawai‘i Island, Maui, O‘ahu and the US Continent and their supporters hope to share their perspectives on the next steps forward for the Hawaiian people.

“We all have committed to engaging in this process – the specific way in which each of us engages will be different. As for myself, I will be at the convention. I know many others who will participate, as well,” said Keoni Kuoha, a member of Nā Makalehua and O‘ahu delegate.

Kuoha ended by saying, “Hawaiians want self-governance. Many have come before us seeking to secure this right – and many more will come after us – but now is our time to make a meaningful impact toward that goal and the broader goals of Hawaiian self-determination.”

Those who sought a seat during the election as a member of Nā Makalehua included the following:

Catelin Aiwohi, U.S. Continent
Zuri Aki, O‘ahu
Nā‘ālehu Anthony, O‘ahu
‘Olu Campbell, Maui
Jocelyn Doane, O‘ahu
Tyler Gomes, O‘ahu
Kaniela Ing, Maui
Matthew Ka‘aihue, O‘ahu
Amy Kalili, Hawai‘i Island
Dreanalee Kalili, O‘ahu
Adrian Kamali‘i, O‘ahu
Keoni Kuoha, O‘ahu
Kūhiō Lewis, O‘ahu
Shane Palacat-Nelsen, Hawai‘i Island
Anthony Melvin Makana Paris, O‘ahu
Davis Price, O‘ahu
Keani Rawlins-Fernandez, O‘ahu
Rebecca Justine ‘Iolani Soon, O‘ahu
Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, O‘ahu