I seem to have been spoiled by the ovations when nations fight for their independence. We cheered the Jews when they created Israel in 1948. We congratulated Bangladesh when they seceded from Pakistan in 1971. We encouraged the Hungarians in 1956 to fight for their freedom and independence. We were jubilant when the Soviet Union broke up and the satellite states regained their independence.

But where are the cheers for the Hui Pu movement that wants 100 percent autonomy in governing a sovereign Hawaiian nation?

I am not a kanaka maoli, but I respect their nation, their goal and their striving for independence, and I fully support it. The Hawaiians should not be less important to us than the Jews, Hungarians and Estonians. It is their right to seek independence, to make Hawaiian culture flourish in Hawaii, and to make Hawaiian the only official language of Hawaii, if they like. So fly the banner of the Hawaiian kingdom proudly! You'll see how many of us will support you.

And those who are worried about it? No need. The overwhelming majority of Russians who had lived in the former Soviet republics did not to return to their homeland, and they are happy they stayed. The same is bound to happen here.