Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2006

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Human Services, to which was referred H.B. No. 3217, H.D. 1, entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to establish Kupuna Recognition Day.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the measure from the Department of Education, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs (PABEA), and over one hundred individuals.

Your Committee finds that our kupuna are a valued cultural resource in Hawaii. The term "kupuna" means grandparent, ancestor, relative, or close friend of the grandparent's generation; it can also mean starting point, source, or growing. Our kupuna represent the source of wisdom and knowledge for all of Hawaii's people. Establishing a Kupuna Recognition Day honors our ancestors and elders and recognizes their many contributions to Hawaii's rich cultural diversity and heritage.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Human Services that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 3217, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.