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SRES 419119th CongressIn Committee

A resolution expressing support for the designation of September 2025 as "Hawaiian History Month" to recognize the history, culture and contributions of Native Hawaiians and reaffirm the United States Federal trust responsibility to the Native Hawaiian Community to support their well-being.

Introduced: Sep 29, 2025
Sponsor: Sen. Schatz, Brian [D-HI] (D-Hawaii)
Civil Rights & Justice
Standard Summary
Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

This is a non-binding Senate resolution (S. Res. 419) introduced in the 119th Congress, sponsored by Sen. Schatz (joined by Sen. Hirono). It expresses support for designating September 2025 as “Hawaiian History Month” to recognize the history, culture, and contributions of Native Hawaiians and to reaffirm the United States Federal trust responsibility to the Native Hawaiian Community in support of their well-being. The resolution is largely ceremonial, urging federal agencies, educational institutions, and civil society to observe the month with programs and education, and it references past U.S. acknowledgement of the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the ongoing reconciliation process. The document highlights Native Hawaiians’ historical contributions, legacy, and resilience, cites Public Law 103-150 (the 1993 apology and acknowledgment of the overthrow), and underscores the importance of language and cultural revitalization. While it frames the issue in terms of a trust responsibility and reconciliation, the resolution itself does not create new law or funding; its impact is primarily symbolic and informational, aimed at encouraging observance and public education.

Key Points

  • 1Expresses support for designating September 2025 as “Hawaiian History Month” to honor Native Hawaiian history, culture, and contributions.
  • 2Recalls and reaffirms the federal trust responsibility to the Native Hawaiian Community and supports ongoing reconciliation efforts, including consultation, in connection with Public Law 103-150 (the 1993 apology for the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii).
  • 3Highlights the historical context of Native Hawaiians, including literacy achievements, cultural revitalization, and the sovereignty narrative surrounding the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi.
  • 4Names notable Native Hawaiian figures and their contributions to history, culture, and public life as part of the broader recognition of Native Hawaiian heritage.
  • 5Encourages Federal agencies, educational institutions, and civil society to observe Hawaiian History Month through programs, ceremonies, and educational activities.

Impact Areas

Primary group/area affected: Native Hawaiians and the Native Hawaiian Community, through symbolic recognition and potential support for cultural revitalization efforts.Secondary group/area affected: The broader population in Hawaii and the United States, via educational programming and increased awareness of Native Hawaiian history and contributions.Additional impacts:- Reinforces discussions around the federal “trust responsibility” to Native Hawaiians and the legacy of the 1893 overthrow, contributing to dialogue on reconciliation and consultation.- Could influence public sector and educational curricula, museum exhibits, and cultural programming, though it does not create funding or new policy obligations.- Aligns with existing state observances (Hawaii designates Hawaiian History Month) but remains a federal, symbolic gesture without new legal or fiscal requirements.
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