U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) applauded the release by the White House of the draft report for the reconciliation process between Native Hawaiians and the Federal government. In 1999, Senator Akaka requested that the Department of the Interior and the Department of Justice designate representatives to pursue reconciliation between Native Hawaiians and the Federal government as called for in P.L. 103-150, the Apology Resolution. In December 1999, John Berry, Interior Assistant Secretary for Policy, and Mr. Mark Van Norman, Director, Office of Tribal Justice, began public consultations with Native Hawaiians. President Clinton reviewed and approved release of the draft report on August 22, 2000. Senator Akaka's statement follows:

"I deeply appreciate the efforts of the White House, Interior, and Justice to address issues of concern to Native Hawaiians. Mr. Berry and Mr. Van Norman earned the respect of the Hawaiian community during the series of meetings held on every island because of their sincerity and commitment to improving the quality of life for Native Hawaiians. After serious consideration of the testimony provided, the release of the draft report is an important step forward in the dialogue of reconciliation.

"The draft report reflects the mana'o offered by the Native Hawaiian community. Of equal importance is the Federal government's clear reaffirmation of the United States' special responsibility for the welfare of Native Hawaiians as a native people in the United States. The draft report's findings and recommendations underscore the importance of the federal recognition legislation we have proposed in Congress. I believe the report will further energize and unify the Native Hawaiian community as we prepare for next week's hearings."