Hawaii marks 50 years as nation’s youngest state; pro-independence protests planned

Muted commemoration as Hawaii turns 50 as a state

HONOLULU — Hawaii is marking its entry as the 50th state with a new postage stamp, planning for the islands’ future economic development and protests.

State leaders called Friday’s events a statehood “commemoration” rather than a “celebration” out of respect to Native Hawaiians and their unresolved claims since the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom.

In Hawaii, the events in remembrance its 1959 admission into the union are light on flag-waving and parades, instead emphasizing preparations for the future. Panel discussions will focus on tourism, alternative energy and Hawaiian rights. Elsewhere, it was being marked as a cause for celebration with one of the more elaborate displays taking place Friday afternoon in New York City’s Times Square where dancers dressed in traditional Hawaiian costumes were teaching people how to Hula dance.

The official statehood celebration highlighted Hawaii as a model for diversity while attempting to dispel misconceptions of the islands as an exotic location separate from the rest of the country.

Hawaii’s Bryan Clay, who claimed the title of “world’s greatest athlete” after winning gold in the decathlon in Beijing last year, said many Americans still think of the islands as a place with grass huts that requires a passport to visit.

“Hawaii is far more than just a beautiful vacation spot,” Clay told a packed audience at the Hawaii Convention Center. “In the case of Hawaii, more so than in other states, perception is different from reality.”

Others spoke about how the rest of the country should look to Hawaii as a model for how people of different backgrounds can get along, preserve their natural resources and develop renewable power.

“The mere mention of Hawaii draws recognition that overcomes language and geographic barriers,” said Gov. Linda Lingle. “We are regarded as a true island paradise where the unique hospitality of our people, abundant natural resources, diverse heritage and host culture sets us apart.”

President Barack Obama signed a proclamation marking the anniversary and said it was in Hawaii, where he grew up, that he learned from its diversity of cultures how different cultures blend together into one population, made stronger by their shared sense of community.

The proclamation said: “The Aloha Spirit of Hawaii offers hope and opportunity for all Americans.”

Outside the Hawaii Convention Center, protesters who would rather see Hawaii’s independence restored plan a march and a rally. They argue that Hawaii’s statehood was never legal and that the islands should return to its status as a sovereign nation.

The postage stamp, available nationwide Friday, shows a painting of a longboard surfer and two paddlers in an outrigger canoe.

On the Net:

hawaii.gov/statehood

hawaiistatehoodconference.com