Your Holiness Pope Francis,

I write to you with deep reverence and a profound sense of urgency to address a historic injustice that continues to weigh heavily on the hearts of Native Hawaiians. This letter seeks to implore your compassionate leadership in facilitating restorative justice for the Native Hawaiian people. As we reflect upon the past and look towards the future, the Catholic Church has a unique and transformative role to play in this endeavor.

Historical Context: The Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom

In 1893, the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown in an illegal coup orchestrated by a small group of sugar and pineapple-growing businessmen, with the aid of the American minister to Hawaii and the support of U.S. military forces. This coup deposed Queen Liliʻuokalani, the rightful monarch of Hawaii, leading to the imprisonment of the Queen and the seizure of approximately 1.75 million acres of crown land. The Native Hawaiian people, who never relinquished their claim to sovereignty, faced significant cultural and economic suppression as their kingdom was dismantled and their traditional way of life disrupted.

The illegal overthrow had profound and lasting impacts on the Native Hawaiian population. The dismantling of the monarchy not only stripped them of their political autonomy but also led to the erosion of their cultural heritage and practices. The seizure of crown lands disrupted the traditional land tenure system, which was integral to the social and economic structures of Hawaiian society. The imposition of Western legal and economic systems further marginalized Native Hawaiians, leading to widespread dispossession and displacement.

Moreover, the suppression of Native Hawaiian culture and language during this period was devastating. Schools and institutions established by the new regime promoted Western values and discouraged the use of the Hawaiian language, further alienating the indigenous population from their heritage. This cultural suppression has had enduring consequences, contributing to the loss of traditional knowledge and practices that are crucial to the identity and resilience of the Native Hawaiian people. The Catholic Church, with its historical presence in Hawaii, has a moral responsibility to acknowledge these impacts and support efforts to restore and revitalize Hawaiian culture.

The Role of the Catholic Church

The Catholic Church has had a long and complex history in Hawaii. Early missionaries arrived in the early 19th century, aiming to spread Christianity among the indigenous population. However, this often led to tensions with traditional Hawaiian practices and beliefs. Despite these initial conflicts, the Catholic Church established a significant presence in Hawaii, continuing its mission even in the face of persecution and expulsion by local authorities

The arrival of Catholic missionaries, alongside their Protestant counterparts primarily from Boston, Massachusetts, marked the beginning of a significant cultural and religious transformation in Hawaii. These missionaries played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity, which was seen both as a force of change and a source of conflict. While their efforts led to the establishment of churches and schools, they also contributed to the suppression of traditional Hawaiian spiritual practices and the imposition of Western religious norms. This historical context is essential in understanding the dual legacy of the Church in Hawaii—both as a bearer of faith and as an agent of cultural disruption.

Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that some individuals associated with these missions, such as Rev. Harcourt W. Peck of the First United Methodist Church of Honolulu, were actively involved in the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani’s monarchy. Rev. Peck’s participation in this event highlights the complex and often troubling role those religious institutions played in the political upheaval of Hawaii. Recognizing these historical wrongs and the pain they have caused is a necessary step towards healing and reconciliation. The Catholic Church, with its commitment to justice and compassion, is uniquely positioned to lead this process of acknowledgment and restitution.

Emissary and President Grover Cleveland’s Findings

In the aftermath of the overthrow, then U.S. President Grover Cleveland dispatched an emissary, James H. Blount, to thoroughly investigate the situation. Blount’s report concluded that the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom had been illegal and unjust, conducted without the consent of the Hawaiian people. President Cleveland himself acknowledged the wrongdoing and expressed a desire to restore the Queen to her throne, although subsequent political dynamics prevented this from happening. This historical account underscores the legitimacy of Native Hawaiian grievances and the need for restorative justice.

Blount’s investigation revealed the extent to which the overthrow was orchestrated by American interests in Hawaii, seeking to expand their economic and political influence. His report highlighted the role of the U.S. military and diplomatic support in facilitating the coup, which was carried out without the consent of the Hawaiian people or their legitimate government. President Cleveland’s subsequent efforts to reverse the overthrow were thwarted by powerful interests within the United States, illustrating the challenges faced in rectifying historical injustices.

The findings of Blount’s report and President Cleveland’s stance offer a compelling precedent for the Catholic Church to support restorative justice for Native Hawaiians. By acknowledging the findings of the Blount report and advocating for the principles of justice and reconciliation, the Church can play a crucial role in addressing the historical wrongs committed during the overthrow. This alignment with historical truth and justice is not only morally right but also aligns with the Church’s broader mission of promoting peace and reconciliation worldwide.

Key Figures Involved in the Overthrow

The overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom was not merely a spontaneous event but a meticulously planned and executed coup by individuals with deep connections to the missionary community. Prominent figures such as Sanford B. Dole and Lorrin A. Thurston played critical roles in the overthrow, and their family backgrounds are deeply intertwined with the history of Christian missions in Hawaii.

Sanford B. Dole: Born to American Protestant missionaries in Honolulu, Dole was a key leader in the Committee of Safety, the group that orchestrated the coup. As a jurist and politician, Dole became the President of the Provisional Government and later the Republic of Hawaii. His actions were instrumental in the transition of Hawaii from a sovereign kingdom to a territory of the United States. Dole’s missionary upbringing and education significantly influenced his worldview and actions, which ultimately led to the disenfranchisement of Native Hawaiians.

Lorrin A. Thurston: Another pivotal figure, Thurston was the grandson of early missionaries Asa and Lucy Thurston. He used his position as a lawyer and politician to advocate for the overthrow of the monarchy. Thurston’s role in drafting the Bayonet Constitution of 1887, which severely restricted the power of the Hawaiian monarchy and disenfranchised many Native Hawaiians, set the stage for the eventual coup. His connections within the American business community and his fervent support for annexation were crucial in the overthrow and subsequent annexation of Hawaii.

These individuals and their missionary-descended cohorts were driven by a combination of economic interests and a paternalistic belief in the superiority of Western governance and religion. Their actions, supported by the U.S. government and military, led to the subjugation of the Native Hawaiian people and the annexation of their homeland.

The Call for Restorative Justice

More than a century later, the Native Hawaiian community continues to seek justice, restoration, and recognition of their rights to their ancestral lands. The Catholic Church, with its global influence and commitment to social justice, is in a unique position to lead these restorative efforts. Here are several ways the Church can actively participate in this process:

1. Land Restoration: The Catholic Church can support initiatives aimed at returning land to Native Hawaiians. By advocating for land reform and facilitating the transfer of properties, the Church can help rectify historical wrongs and promote reconciliation.

Land restoration is a tangible and powerful form of restorative justice. The return of ancestral lands to Native Hawaiians would address the historical injustices of land dispossession and enable the revival of traditional land use practices that are integral to Hawaiian culture. The Catholic Church, by leveraging its influence and resources, can advocate for policies that facilitate the transfer of land back to Native Hawaiian stewardship. This would not only restore a critical aspect of their cultural heritage but also promote sustainable and community-based land management practices.

Moreover, the Church can take proactive steps by identifying and transferring any land holdings it possesses that were historically taken from Native Hawaiians. This act of restitution would serve as a powerful gesture of goodwill and commitment to justice. Additionally, the Church can support Native Hawaiian-led land trusts and conservation efforts, providing financial and logistical support to ensure the preservation and restoration of these lands. By doing so, the Church can help to heal the deep wounds of dispossession and contribute to the resurgence of Hawaiian culture and identity.

2. Educational Initiatives: The Church can engage in educational programs that illuminate the true history of Hawaii, including the role of missionaries and the consequences of the overthrow. By acknowledging past mistakes and promoting historical awareness, the Church can contribute to healing and understanding.

Education is a cornerstone of restorative justice. By promoting a comprehensive and truthful account of Hawaii’s history, the Catholic Church can play a crucial role in fostering understanding and reconciliation. Educational programs that highlight the history of Hawaii, including the impacts of missionary activities and the overthrow, can help to dispel myths and provide a more nuanced understanding of the past. This includes acknowledging the contributions of Native Hawaiians to their own society and the detrimental effects of colonial and missionary interventions.

The Church can collaborate with educational institutions, community organizations, and Native Hawaiian leaders to develop and implement curricula that accurately reflect the history and culture of Hawaii. These programs can be integrated into schools, parishes, and community centers, ensuring broad access to historical knowledge. Furthermore, the Church can support the preservation and revitalization of the Hawaiian language, which is an essential component of cultural identity and resilience. By promoting language programs and cultural education, the Church can help to restore a sense of pride and continuity among Native Hawaiians.

3. Interfaith Dialogue: Collaborating with other faith communities, the Catholic Church can foster dialogue and understanding. Joint efforts can address the legacy of colonization and work towards a more just and inclusive society.

Interfaith dialogue is a powerful tool for building bridges and promoting mutual understanding. By engaging in dialogue with other faith communities, the Catholic Church can address the complex legacy of colonization in Hawaii and work towards healing historical wounds. These dialogues can provide a platform for discussing the impacts of missionary activities, acknowledging past wrongs, and exploring pathways to reconciliation. Collaborative efforts can lead to joint initiatives that promote social justice, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.

Furthermore, interfaith partnerships can enhance the Church’s efforts in advocating for restorative justice. By joining forces with other religious and spiritual leaders, the Church can amplify its voice and influence in calling for policies that support the rights and dignity of Native Hawaiians. This united front can help to address systemic issues such as land rights, cultural preservation, and social equity. By fostering a spirit of cooperation and solidarity, the Catholic Church can contribute to a more inclusive and just society for all.

Initiatives for Cultural Revival

Restorative justice also encompasses the revival and preservation of Native Hawaiian culture, which has faced significant suppression since the overthrow. The Catholic Church can support cultural initiatives that aim to revitalize traditional practices, arts, and languages.

Language Revitalization: The Hawaiian language, ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, is a cornerstone of Hawaiian identity and culture. The suppression of the Hawaiian language in the late 19th and early 20th centuries led to a dramatic decline in fluent speakers. However, recent efforts to revitalize the language have shown promising results. The Catholic Church can contribute to these efforts by supporting Hawaiian language immersion schools, funding language programs, and incorporating Hawaiian language and culture into church services and community activities.

Cultural Practices and Arts: Traditional Hawaiian practices and arts, including hula (dance), mele (chant), and traditional crafts, are integral to the Hawaiian way of life. The Church can support cultural practitioners and artists by providing spaces for performances and workshops, funding cultural programs, and encouraging the integration of traditional practices into community events. By doing so, the Church can help to ensure the continuity and flourishing of Hawaiian cultural heritage.

Spiritual Practices: Recognizing and respecting traditional Hawaiian spiritual practices is also vital. The Church can engage in dialogue with Native Hawaiian spiritual leaders and practitioners to understand their perspectives and needs. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, the Church can create an inclusive environment that honors the spiritual traditions of Native Hawaiians.

Advocacy for Social and Economic Justice

Restorative justice extends beyond cultural and land restoration to encompass social and economic justice. Native Hawaiians face significant disparities in health, education, and economic opportunities. The Catholic Church can advocate for policies and programs that address these inequities and promote the well-being of Native Hawaiian communities.

Health Equity: Native Hawaiians experience higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancy compared to other populations in Hawaii. The Church can support health initiatives that provide access to quality healthcare, promote preventive health practices, and address social determinants of health. By partnering with healthcare providers and community organizations, the Church can help to improve health outcomes for Native Hawaiians.

Educational Opportunities: Ensuring access to quality education is crucial for the empowerment of Native Hawaiian communities. The Church can advocate for educational programs that are culturally relevant and responsive to the needs of Native Hawaiian students. This includes supporting scholarship programs, enhancing educational resources in schools, and promoting higher education opportunities for Native Hawaiian youth.

Economic Empowerment: Economic disparities remain a significant challenge for Native Hawaiians. The Church can support economic empowerment initiatives by advocating for job training programs, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship, and promoting equitable access to economic resources. By fostering economic self-sufficiency, the Church can help to build resilient and thriving Native Hawaiian communities.

Conclusion

Your Holiness, the time is ripe for the Catholic Church to lead by example in addressing historical injustices. Let us acknowledge our past, seek forgiveness, and actively participate in restorative justice efforts. By doing so, we honor the dignity of the Native Hawaiian people, promote healing, and contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

With utmost respect and hope,

Brian C. Alston

Founder & CEO, 

ND Enterprises LLC

United Sates