Bill > HCR174

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Human Services' Office of Youth Services and Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council to continue supporting aina-based learning programs for youth in the juvenile legal system. The resolution highlights that current community service opportunities often fail to help youth reconnect with their culture and land, which can increase the risk of intergenerational trauma and recidivism. Aina-based learning, which is grounded in teaching through the land, ocean, air, and living things, offers an opportunity for youth to strengthen their connections to community and learn critical skills. The resolution specifically asks the department to continue using these programs and to create a list of organizations offering aina-based learning that courts can use when assigning community service to minors. The resolution notes that these programs disproportionately benefit Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and African-American youth, who are more likely to be arrested and detained, and emphasizes the potential for cultural healing and rehabilitation through these approaches.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=174&year=2025