The state of Hawaiʻi has established a new advisory body aimed at enhancing its relationship with LGBTQ+ citizens, as per HRS 369. This newly formed commission is one of the few in the United States and includes eight voting members. It operates under the Department of Human Services.
"The eight commissioners come to the table with a wide range of diverse and relevant experience and history," said Commission Chair O’Dell. "It’s easy to feel how committed the members are and how enthusiastically they honor the responsibilities they are charged to take on."
The commissioners were sworn in by Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke on June 28, 2024, a date chosen for its significance as it marks the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, an important event in LGBTQ+ history.
The commission's responsibilities include raising public awareness about Hawaiʻi’s LGBTQ+ community, maintaining contact with relevant agencies, recommending legislative actions for equal treatment, and submitting an annual report to the governor and legislature.
In addition to its voting members, there are six ex officio nonvoting members or their designees from various state departments such as Education, University of Hawai‘i system, Labor and Industrial Relations, Human Resources Development, Human Services, and Health.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi invited commission members to participate in Honolulu Pride Month events. On October 1st, they attended a ceremony where the Pride flag was raised above Frank F. Fasi Civic Center Grounds. They also proclaimed Wilhelmina Tenney Rainbow Shower Tree as Honolulu's "Official Pride Tree." The day included celebrations at Aliʻiōlani Hale and discussions featuring current and former Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justices about marriage equality.
The commission will also join the Honolulu Pride Parade scheduled for October 19 down Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu celebrates Pride in October aligning with LGBTQ+ History Month and other significant dates like National Coming Out Day.