U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Brian Schatz, along with U.S. Representatives Ed Case and Jill Tokuda, have introduced a resolution in celebration of Mahina Olelo Hawaii, also known as Hawaiian Language Month.
“Indigenous languages are an important part of our country’s history and fabric,” stated Senator Hirono. She highlighted the challenges faced by indigenous languages due to laws and prejudices that nearly led to their extinction. “Hawaii’s indigenous, Hawaiian language, or Olelo Hawaii, was similarly nearly made extinct by misguided policies banning the language from being taught in schools or used in official governing documents,” she added.
Senator Hirono praised the efforts of the Native Hawaiian community in preserving Olelo Hawaii despite its endangered status. “Through perseverance the Native Hawaiian community protected and revitalized the use of Olelo Hawaii,” she said. The resolution emphasizes ongoing efforts to preserve, protect, and promote the Hawaiian language while encouraging nationwide support for Mahina Olelo Hawaii.
The complete text of the resolution is available for public viewing.
