Congress will not consider Hawaii federal recognition.

Leading the discussion, Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii) debated June 7 the merits of S. 147, the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act. Also speaking in support were Sens. Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.), Alaska Republicans Ted Stevens and Lisa Murkowski and Barack Obama (D-Ill.).

"This is a great day for Hawaii's people. This bill is important not only for the future of Native Hawaiians, but to the future of all indigenous people and to the United States," Akaka told a group of supporters outside the Capitol before the vote. "We are looking toward justice for indigenous people. This is a momentous time. We feel confident."

Nonetheless, the Senate voted 56 to 41 June 8 against a final debate and eventual up-or-down vote.

A group of approximately 50 supporters led by the Office of the Hawaiian Affairs rallied before the scheduled vote at noon. They urged the Senate to vote yes for quick resolution of the bill and afford Native Hawaiians the same rights as tribes and Alaska Natives.

"We are calling on the protectors of democracy and upholders of the constitution to deliver on fair treatment of Hawaiians," OHA chairperson Haunani Apoliona. "The Akaka bill is about fairness for the three aboriginal, indigenous groups in the United States. The Akaka bill does not set new legal precedent. Hawaiians are native to Hawaii just as Indian and Alaska Natives are indigenous to the other 49 states."

A dozen republican senators including Jon Kyl of Arizona, who had previously openly opposed the legislation, joined Akaka in voting to continue debate. All together, 44 Democrats voted for it.

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