MEDIA RELEASE

Honolulu – Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced he is seeking applicants to the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission (NHRC). Act 195 gives the Governor the power to appoint a five-member Native Hawaiian Roll Commission that will build the foundation for self-determination.

“This is an important step for the future of Native Hawaiian self-determination and the ability for Native Hawaiians to decide their own future,” stated Governor Abercrombie. “This Commission will put together the roll of qualified and interested Native Hawaiians who want to help determine the course of Hawai’i’s indigenous people.”

The Commission will be responsible for preparing and maintaining a roll of qualified Native Hawaiians as defined by the Act. The roll is to be used as the basis for participation in the organization of a Native Hawaiian governing entity. The Commission is composed of five members, one from each county and one at-large seat. Once its work is completed, the Governor will dissolve the Commission.

The deadline to submit an application for consideration to the NHRC is August 5, 2011.

Qualified members of the public may apply to the NHRC themselves or recommend applicants. Nominators must meet the four guidelines as stated in Act 195:

1. Be an individual who is a descendant of the aboriginal peoples who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the Hawaiian islands, the area that now constitutes the State of Hawai’i; or an individual who is one of the indigenous, native people of Hawai’i and who was eligible in 1921 for the programs authorized by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, 1920, or a direct lineal descendant of that individual;
2. Maintain a significant cultural, social, or civic connection to the Native Hawaiian community;
3. Wish to participate in the organization of the Native Hawaiian governing entity; and
4. Must be eighteen years of age or older.

To apply please visit the Boards & Commissions tab on the Governor’s website: http://hawaii.gov/gov.