[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-

[[Page 4650]]

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