Mazie Hirono actually said...

"The Native Hawaiian people are an indigenous people this is not race-based legislation."

"Congress retains some jurisdiction because of the creation of the Hawaiian Homes Commissions Act."

"Native Hawaiians, like American Indians and Alaska Natives, have an inherent sovereignty based on their status as indigenous native people."

"This bill sets up a process whereby the United States can recognize a constituted Native Hawaiian governing entity."