Hawaiian Man Refuses to Speak English in Court: ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi Nō Ka Lāhui

Summary

A native Hawaiian educator, Samuel Kaleikoa Kaeo, faced arrest for insisting on speaking only Hawaiian during a trial about his arrest at a protest against the construction of the Daniel K. Inouye solar telescope. The bench warrant was recalled, and Kaeo argues that using Hawaiian is a human right and crucial for expressing cultural integrity. The case is rescheduled for a status trial setting with a hearing on the interpreter issue on February 21st.

Takeaways

• 🌞 The bench warrant for the arrest of a native Hawaiian educator on Maui, Samuel Coleco Akka Al, has been recalled.
• 🔍 The warrant was issued after Akka Al spoke only in Hawaiian during a trial related to his arrest at a protest against the Daniel K. Inouye solar telescope construction.
• 🌺 Akka Al believes that the judiciary is targeting him for his political activism and organizing within the Hawaiian community.
• 🗣️ He emphasizes that his decision to speak in Hawaiian during the trial is a reflection of his cultural identity and rights.
• ⚖️ Akka Al questions the actions of the prosecution team and their enforcement of policies that may undermine his Hawaiian identity.
• 🌍 He believes that his best defense is rooted in Hawaiian language and cultural expression, which he feels cannot be fully conveyed in English.
• ⏳ Akka Al is optimistic that future generations will better understand his words in Hawaiian as they become more connected to their cultural heritage.
• 📚 He notes that younger generations of Hawaiians are growing up with a stronger sense of identity, history, and language, compared to past generations.
• 🏞️ The protest at Mauna Kea, led by young Hawaiians raised in the Hawaiian language, symbolizes this resurgence of cultural consciousness.
• 📅 The case has been rescheduled for further hearings, including the issue of whether an interpreter is necessary, and a gathering is planned in front of the old Wailuku courthouse.

Q & A

What was the reason for the arrest of Samuel Kaleikoa Kaeo?

Samuel Kaleikoa Kaeo was arrested during a demonstration against the construction of the Daniel K. Inouye solar telescope at Haleakala.

Why was a bench warrant issued for Kaeo's arrest?

The bench warrant was issued when Kaeo chose to speak only in Hawaiian during his trial, which was considered a violation of court proceedings.

What was the outcome of the bench warrant for Kaeo?

The bench warrant for Kaeo's arrest was recalled.

Why did Kaeo choose to speak in Hawaiian during his trial?

Kaeo believes it is his human right as a Hawaiian to defend himself in his native language, and he feels that he can best represent his ideas and cultural integrity in Hawaiian.

What does Kaeo think about the judiciary's handling of his case?

Kaeo suggests that there may be an attempt to pressure him due to his political organizing and that questions should be asked about the prosecution team's decision-making process.

How does Kaeo view the current state of the Hawaiian language and culture?

Kaeo sees a stronger and more empowered younger generation that is well-versed in Hawaiian history, language, and identity.

What is Kaeo's opinion on the role of the Hawaiian language in legal proceedings?

Kaeo believes that speaking in Hawaiian is a fundamental right and that it is the best way for him to represent his cultural integrity and defend himself.

What is the significance of the Mauna Kea protest mentioned in the script?

The Mauna Kea protest is highlighted as an example of the younger generation's empowered stance in preserving Hawaiian culture and identity.

What is the current status of Kaeo's case?

The case has been rescheduled for a status trial setting and further hearing on the issue of an interpreter for February 21st.

What is the kako Haleakala group's plan regarding the telescope protest?

The kako Haleakala group, which was involved in the initial telescope protest, has planned a gathering in front of the old Wailuku courthouse.

How does Kaeo perceive the progress towards the betterment of the Hawaiian nation?

Kaeo feels that progress has been made, as the younger generation is more empowered and knowledgeable about their history and language.