    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8534--JUNE 10, 2010

    Proclamation 8534 of June 10, 2010
    King Kamehameha Day, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Two hundred years ago, King Kamehameha the Great brought the Hawaiian
    Islands together under a unified government. His courage and leadership
    earned him a legacy as the ``Napoleon of the Pacific,'' and today his
    humanity is preserved in Ke Kanawai Mamalahoe, or ``the Law of the
    Splintered Paddle.'' This law protects civilians in times of war and
    remains enshrined in Hawaii's constitution as ``a unique and living
    symbol of the State's concern for public safety.''
    On this bicentennial King Kamehameha Day, we celebrate the history and
    heritage of the Aloha State, which has immeasurably enriched our
    national life and culture. The Hawaiian narrative is one of both
    profound triumph and, sadly, deep injustice. It is the story of Native
    Hawaiians oppressed by crippling disease, aborted treaties, and the
    eventual conquest of their sovereign kingdom. These grim milestones
    remind us of an unjust time in our history, as well as the many pitfalls
    in our Nation's long and difficult journey to perfect itself. Yet,
    through the peaks and valleys of our American story, Hawaii's steadfast
    sense of community and mutual support shows the progress that results
    when we are united in a spirit of limitless possibility.
    In the decades since their persecution, Native Hawaiians have remained
    resilient. They are part of the diverse people of Hawaii who, as
    children of pioneers and immigrants from around the world, carry on the
    unique cultures and traditions of their forebears. As Americans, we can
    all admire these traits, as well as the raw natural beauty of the
    islands themselves. Truly, the Aloha Spirit of Hawaii echoes the
    American Spirit, representing the opportunities we all have to grow and
    learn from one another as we carry our Nation toward a brighter day.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con-

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    stitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 11,
    2010, as King Kamehameha Day. I call upon all Americans to celebrate the
    rich heritage of Hawaii with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of June,
    in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the
    United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA