Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB3200

Introduced
1/28/26  

Caption

Relating To Culture.

Impact

This bill will amend Chapter 8 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to officially designate the 28th of October as Immigrants Day while altering the nature of Statehood Day. The bill proposes that Statehood Day transition from a public state holiday to a day of recognition, which aims to help address historical grievances surrounding the annexation of Hawaii and the treatment of Native Hawaiian people. This change reflects an effort to promote healing and inclusivity within the state's cultural narrative by ensuring that the contributions of immigrants are duly acknowledged.

Summary

SB3200 aims to recognize and celebrate the contributions of immigrants to the State of Hawaii by establishing a new holiday called Immigrants Day, coinciding with National Immigrants Day on October 28. The bill highlights the historical significance of the various immigrant communities that have shaped Hawaii, emphasizing their role alongside Native Hawaiians in creating a unique cultural heritage. The legislation also challenges the current perception and significance of Statehood Day, which has faced controversy due to its association with historical injustices against Native Hawaiians.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from the controversial nature of Statehood Day itself, which many argue represents a painful chapter in Hawaii's history, including the suppression of Native Hawaiian sovereignty. By modifying Statehood Day, proponents of the bill believe it helps to heal past injustices, while opponents may view it as diminishing the importance of the state's history and its recognition of the complexities surrounding the attainment of statehood. Discussions surrounding the adoption of Immigrants Day have sparked a dialogue about the broader implications for identity and culture in Hawaii.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1011

Relating To Culture And Arts.

HI SB199

Relating To Hawaiian Culture.

HI SB1577

Relating To The State Foundation On Culture And The Arts.

HI SB1344

Relating To The Center For Cultural And Technical Interchange Between East And West, Inc.

HI SB928

Relating To Culture And The Arts.

HI HB1378

Relating To The State Foundation On Culture And The Arts.

HI HCR141

Requesting The Establishment Of A Working Group To Study The Feasibility Of Creating A Hawaii Cultural Trust To Preserve And Promote Hawaii's Cultural Resources.

HI HR135

Requesting The Establishment Of A Working Group To Study The Feasibility Of Creating A Hawaii Cultural Trust To Preserve And Promote Hawaii's Cultural Resources.

HI SB47

Relating To State Holidays.

HI HB1025

Relating To The Center For Cultural And Technical Interchange Between East And West, Inc.

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