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In a landmark decision yesterday, Hawaii took a major step towards recognizing the rights of its indigenous population by ratifying the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This move marks a significant shift in the state's approach to international law and signals a commitment to upholding the rights of native Hawaiians.The decision was hailed by indigenous rights activists and legal experts as a historic moment for Hawaii, which has long grappled with the legacy of colonization and the marginalization of its indigenous population. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adopted in 2007, sets out a wide range of rights and principles aimed at protecting the rights of indigenous peoples around the world.By ratifying the declaration, Hawaii has committed to upholding the rights of its indigenous population, including the right to self-determination, the right to control their own lands and resources, and the right to maintain and develop their own cultures, languages, and traditions. This move is seen as a crucial step towards recognizing the unique status and rights of native Hawaiians within the state.The decision was welcomed by native Hawaiian organizations and leaders, who have long advocated for greater recognition and protection of their rights. "This is a historic moment for Hawaii and for indigenous rights around the world," said Kaimana Smith, a spokesperson for the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. "By ratifying this declaration, Hawaii is affirming its commitment to upholding the rights of our people and ensuring that our voices are heard in matters that affect our land, our resources, and our communities."The ratification of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples has been seen as a monumental achievement for Hawaii, which has often been at the forefront of indigenous rights struggles in the United States. The move is expected to have far-reaching implications for the state's legal landscape and could set a precedent for other states and territories to follow suit in recognizing and protecting the rights of their indigenous populations.Overall, the decision to ratify the declaration represents a major milestone in Hawaii's ongoing efforts to address historical injustices and ensure a more equitable and inclusive society for all of its residents. With this bold move in international law, Hawaii is setting a powerful example for the rest of the world in recognizing and upholding the rights of indigenous peoples.