HI SR66

Proclaims 2010 as the Year of Ethnic Studies in Hawaii to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Ethnic Studies Department at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which began in 1970 as an experimental two-year program and became a full department in 1995.

Recognizes the department's national and international reputation for research and publications on Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and native Hawaiians, as well as its work opposing racism and discrimination.

Acknowledges the contributions of Ethnic Studies faculty to Hawaiian scholarship and society, the community service provided by students over 40 years, and the department's emphasis on applying scholarship to local community issues through praxis.

Notes that the department founded the Ah Quon McElrath Fund for Social Change to support progressive social change and justice initiatives within the community.

Directs certified copies of the resolution to be sent to University of Hawaii leadership and the Ethnic Studies Department Chair.