Expressing support for the designation of February 2026 as "Hawaiian Language Month" or "'Olelo Hawai'i Month".

Plain-English Summary

This bill is a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives expressing support for officially recognizing February 2026 as "Hawaiian Language Month" (also called "'Ōlelo Hawai'i Month"). It is a symbolic measure, meaning it does not create any new laws, programs, or government spending. Instead, it formally states that Congress values and supports the Hawaiian language and its cultural significance.

The Hawaiian language, known as 'Ōlelo Hawai'i, is the traditional language of the Native Hawaiian people and is one of only two official state languages of Hawaii (alongside English). Like many Indigenous languages across the United States, Hawaiian faced a dramatic decline over the 20th century but has experienced a revival in recent decades through immersion schools and cultural programs. This resolution would signal federal acknowledgment of those preservation efforts.

The bill primarily affects Native Hawaiians and communities involved in Hawaiian language education and cultural preservation, as it recognizes their efforts on a national stage. While it has no direct legal or financial impact on any individual or organization, symbolic resolutions like this one can help raise awareness, encourage cultural pride, and draw public attention to language revitalization efforts. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce for consideration.