Forum

April 5, 2010 Honolulu Star Bulletin

Army Respects native Hawaiians

The Native Hawaiian Covenant that was recently signed by the U.S. Army, and acknowledged by members of the native Hawaiian community, is intended to be a symbolic yet powerful first step in initiating a proactive dialogue between the native Hawaiian community and the U.S. Army Hawaii.

It establishes basic principles and common interests and a commitment to enhancing mutual understanding, and expresses a desire to work together to achieve common goals.

While the covenant doesn't deal with specific issues, it identifies a positive and constructive way forward to help resolve differences.

The Army is fully committed to open and transparent dialogue with native Hawaiian and other community leaders on a variety of issues. The covenant is a way of codifying this commitment and ensuring that those who come after us understand the benefit of establishing a mutually supporting relationship with the Hawaiian community.

During my time here, I've learned that native Hawaiian leaders are concerned with several Army-related issues on Oahu and Hawaii Island, including protection, preservation and access to cultural and historic resources and continued protection of threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

They are also concerned about the economic future of their people and the larger community. They are concerned about Army leaders and soldiers knowing and understanding the native Hawaiian culture and values as they move forward in their mission.

This covenant is an important first step in addressing these concerns and working together. Those involved approach this effort with a deep respect for one another and are committed to the work ahead.