Understanding the Difference Between a Hawaiian and a Resident of Hawaii

When discussing the inhabitants of the state of Hawaii, it's important to distinguish between a resident and a Native Hawaiian. The terms Hawaiian and residents of Hawaii encompass different identities and historical contexts, reflecting both legal and cultural aspects.

Defining a Resident of Hawaii

The term Hawaii resident refers to any person who has established legal residence in the state, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background. Whether you were born in Hawaii, moved there recently, or are just visiting, you can legally become a resident of Hawaii through the following methods:

Establishing a home or property (property title) Holding a driver's license issued by the state of Hawaii Being born in Hawaii (a resident from birth) Living in Hawaii for a significant period of time

Once you meet these criteria, you become a legal resident.

Native Hawaiians: An Indigenous People

Native Hawaiians, on the other hand, are indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands. They are defined as descendants of the ancient Polynesian voyagers who first settled the islands and their descendants. While anyone can live in Hawaii and become a resident, the designation of Hawaiian is typically based on one's ethnic and cultural heritage.

How Native Hawaiians and Residents Can Both Be Hawaiian

It's important to note that not all residents of Hawaii are Native Hawaiians. For example, consider someone like the author of this piece: born and raised in Hawaii, 100% of Japanese-Okinawan descent, but not Hawaiian. However, there are clear distinctions to consider:

Legal Residents: Anyone can be a legal resident of Hawaii. Such residents can be of any ethnic background and do not need to be descended from the original inhabitants of the islands.

Indigenous Background: To be considered Hawaiian in the traditional sense, one must have a direct lineage to the indigenous people of the Hawaiian Islands. This means tracing one's ancestry to individuals who were present on the islands before James Cook arrived in 1778.

Demographic and Cultural Context

It is useful to look at the demographic and cultural aspects that distinguish Native Hawaiians from other residents:

Historical Context: Native Hawaiians have a unique and rich cultural and historical heritage that predates American colonization and the statehood of Hawaii in 1959. Language: The Hawaiian language is a distinct and significant part of the cultural identity of Native Hawaiians, and it is efforts to preserve and revitalize this language that underscore the distinct cultural ties. Community: Native Hawaiian communities have formed based on shared cultural, social, and family ties, which are not typically the primary bond among legal residents.

Conclusion

The distinction between a Native Hawaiian and a resident of Hawaii reflects a complex interplay of cultural, historical, and legal identities. While anyone can live and become a resident of Hawaii, the term Hawaiian has deep cultural and ethnic connotations that define and honor the indigenous people of the islands.