Keoni Akaka

Daniel Kahikina Akaka (September 11, 1931 – April 6, 2018) was an American politician who represented Hawaii in the United States Senate for 22 years, from 1990 to 2013. Born in Honolulu to a Native Hawaiian family, Akaka served in World War II and later became a teacher before entering politics. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1976, representing Hawaii's first congressional district for 14 years before his Senate election. As Senator, Akaka was a strong advocate for Native Hawaiian sovereignty and self-determination, championing the Akaka Bill, which sought to establish a Native Hawaiian government. He served on the Committees on Veterans' Affairs, Homeland Security, and Indian Affairs, using his positions to advocate for underrepresented communities. Akaka was known for his quiet, principled demeanor and his dedication to social justice. Though the Akaka Bill never passed both chambers of Congress, his efforts established him as a major voice for indigenous rights in the Senate.