Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, hello--hafa adai and aloha. I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of the late Senator Daniel Akaka. Senator Akaka was a very dear friend and a champion for the people of Hawaii and all Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. His tireless advocacy for 22 years in the Senate and 14 years in this House before that led to better Federal policies for and a recognition of the unique needs of Pacific Islander communities. As the first Native Hawaiian Senator, Senator Akaka fought for the advancement of Native Hawaiians and the rights of all native people, including Guam's Chamorro people. He understood the need to support minority Americans and was a passionate voice for native people. He understood the need to support minority Americans, and Senator Akaka was a true friend of Guam, working diligently to ensure that our issues were prioritized. He gave Guam a voice in the United States Senate, and I was very proud to work closely with him to ease the burdens of the Compacts of Free Association on our islands, to promote better education for Pacific Islanders, and to fight for veterans services for those who sacrificed for our Nation. I could always count on Senator Akaka among Guam's strong advocates in the United States Senate. Our concerns and, indeed, the concerns of all territories were always his concerns as well. I am deeply saddened by the passing of this great statesman, friend of Guam, and treasured colleague.…”