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It’s been nearly 50 years since Hawaii became the 50th US state and preparations are underway on the islands of Hawaii to mark the day in August. But, despite what the tourist advertising may imply, statehood is a controversial topic, one that native Hawaiians take very seriously. In fact, events marking the 50th anniversary are being called commemorations, rather than celebrations, in light of how differently statehood is viewed by indigenous Hawaiians and their allies. There will be a screening of several short videos, followed by a panel discussion on Hawaiian statehood this evening. It’s an event called Ho’opunipuni: The Myth of Statehood, as part of this year’s Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival. The festival started April 30th and goes through May 7th.

GUESTS: Kuhio Vogeler, PhD Candidate in Political Science, long time activist in the struggle of Native Hawaiians, Jonathan Kamakawiwo’ole, Associate Professor of Hawaiian Studies at the Center for Hawaiian Studies at University of Hawaii, Manoa

The panel will take place at the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, 111 N Central Avenue, Los Angeles, on Monday May 4th at 6 pm with a pre-reception. The event will be at 7 pm and includes a screening and panel discussion. For more information and reservations, call 213-680-4462 x 59. This event is free. Find out more at http://www.vconline.org/festival/seminar.cfm?seminar_id=6

For more information about the LA Asian Pacific Film Festival visit www.vconline.org.