Washington, D.C. -- "We are delighted that the U.S. House today voted to approve the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2007, which we in Hawaii know as the Akaka Bill.  This is an important step in the struggle for Native Hawaiian self-determination and recognition of a national identity which was taken by force in 1893.  Today's bipartisan vote illustrates of can be accomplished when people are willing to put aside ideology, partisan advantage and differing perspectives to do what is right.

This question of self-determination for Native Hawaiians has never been a partisan issue in Congress nor in the State of Hawaii.  As we look forward to action on this bill in the United States Senate, we hope it never will."

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