A Note to the Civil Beat Editorial Staff:

The term "Native Hawaiian" is a term created by the US government after the Hawaiian Homes Act was passed. It is a racial qualifier for Hawaiian Homes land leases based on a 50% blood quantum requirement. It was created specifically as a means of separating out a portion of Hawai'i's population ostensibly to qualify for land leases, clearly a racially discriminatory action, but also for targeted oppression.

"Hawaiian" describes nationality and has no racial or ethnic relevance. Polynesian culture is inclusive not divisive. We have no concept of race or ethnicity. Our culture is based on the concept of the oneness of man with nature. 

"Native Hawaiian" has derogatory connotations and is considered offensive by informed kanaka maoli and na ali'i. It would be greatly appreciated if Civil Beat ceased using it. mahalo.

ponokeali'i
Minister of Information
Deputy Interior Minister
Member, The Privy Council
Ke Aupuni o Hawai'i
The Hawaiian Kingdom