§ 7517. Definitions

In this part:

(1) Native Hawaiian The term “Native Hawaiian” means any individual who is—

(A) a citizen of the United States; and

(B) a descendant of the aboriginal people who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the area that now comprises the State of Hawaii, as evidenced by—

(i) genealogical records;

(ii) Kupuna (elders) or Kamaaina (long-term community residents) verification; or

(iii) certified birth records.

(2) Native Hawaiian community-based organization

The term “Native Hawaiian community-based organization” means any organization that is composed primarily of Native Hawaiians from a specific community and that assists in the social, cultural, and educational development of Native Hawaiians in that community.

(3) Native Hawaiian educational organization The term “Native Hawaiian educational organization” means a private nonprofit organization that—

(A) serves the interests of Native Hawaiians;

(B) has Native Hawaiians in substantive and policymaking positions within the organization;

(C) incorporates Native Hawaiian perspective, values, language, culture, and traditions into the core function of the organization;

(D) has demonstrated expertise in the education of Native Hawaiian youth; and

(E) has demonstrated expertise in research and program development.

(4) Native Hawaiian language

The term “Native Hawaiian language” means the single Native American language indigenous to the original inhabitants of the State of Hawaii.

(5) Native Hawaiian organization The term “Native Hawaiian organization” means a private nonprofit organization that—

(A) serves the interests of Native Hawaiians;

(B) has Native Hawaiians in substantive and policymaking positions within the organization; and

(C) is recognized by the Governor of Hawaii for the purpose of planning, conducting, or administering programs (or portions of programs) for the benefit of Native Hawaiians.

(6) Office of Hawaiian Affairs

The term “Office of Hawaiian Affairs” means the Office of Hawaiian Affairs established by the Constitution of the State of Hawaii.

(Pub. L. 89–10, title VII, § 7207, as added Pub. L. 107–110, title VII, § 701, Jan. 8, 2002, 115 Stat. 1941.)