Congresswoman Hirono Statement Honoring Senator Akaka’s Service to the United States
Washington,
Dec 12 -
Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono (HI-02) released the following statement on Senator Akaka’s farewell address on the Senate floor today:
“In Hawaii, aloha represents the spirit of warmth, compassion, and love unique to our beautiful state. Senator Akaka’s life and legacy will forever embody this spirit of aloha.
“He has brought decades of wisdom and aloha to the United States House of Representatives and Senate, prioritizing Hawaii’s keiki, servicemembers, veterans, and America’s indigenous peoples. As the first and only Native Hawaiian U.S. Senator, he has fought for federal recognition of Native Hawaiians and to protect the rights of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
“Although the U.S. Senate will miss his advocacy, Senator Akaka has inspired many more to continue this fight until the work is accomplished.
“In today’s farewell address, Senator Akaka noted the metaphor of the canoe, where people in the same boat go nowhere if paddling in opposite directions. Yet, by working together, we can all go great distances. At a time when so many challenging issues face our country, let’s look to Senator Akaka’s example and come together to find real solutions. I am confident we can accomplish many things if we carry ourselves with the aloha spirit embodied by Senator Akaka.
“Mahalo nui loa, Senator Akaka and Aunty Millie, for everything you have done for the people of Hawaii and our nation. And a hui hou.”
