OHA Beneficiary Advocacy and Empowerment (Office of Hawaiian Affairs)
Office of Hawaiian Affairs Beneficiary Advocacy and Empowerment Committee
AI-Generated Summary
Plain-language overview — always verify with official documents
What's Being Discussed
- The Malu Project: An ad hoc committee and OHA staff will give an update on this initiative, covering what has been done so far, current activities, and planned next steps.
- Deep Sea Mining: The committee will consider an official OHA position and potential actions on the issue of deep sea mining in Hawaiian waters.
- Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and Sanctuary: This topic will be discussed in a closed (executive) session, meaning the public cannot attend that portion. The committee will consult with its legal counsel about possible litigation to defend resource protections at Papahānaumokuākea.
- Approval of past meeting minutes from June 24, 2026, and several earlier executive sessions.
Decisions Expected
- A vote on OHA's official position on deep sea mining — this could result in a formal policy stance or call to action.
- Approval of minutes from previous meetings.
- Possible direction to legal counsel regarding protecting Papahānaumokuākea from threats to its resources.
Who Should Pay Attention
- Native Hawaiians who are OHA beneficiaries, especially those concerned about ocean resources and environmental protection.
- Anyone interested in deep sea mining policy and its potential impact on Hawaiian waters.
- Environmental advocates following protections at Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
- Community members who want to share their views — public testimony is welcome online, by phone at (213) 338-8477, or in person at 560 N. Nimitz Hwy., Suite 200, Honolulu. Oral testimony is limited to five minutes.
How to Participate
This is a public meeting — all community members are welcome to attend and provide testimony. Meetings are typically held in person and may also be accessible online.