Daniel Inouye

“ Third, people are not comfortable with power and might. Why? Because it makes us unequal. Our nation must go out of its way to extend a hand of friendship, especially to those that are, and have been our allies.
During these last few months, harsh words have been thrown about at France and its decision not to join us in the war against Iraq. Everything from calls to change "french fries" to "freedom fries," to a push to boycott French wine. Before any country enters into war, it must decide whether it is in its national interest to do so. ”

“ Only after Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7th did America enter the war. It was deemed to be in our national interest.
For these reasons, we should respect others, especially our allies. We cannot remain in an "either you are with us, or you're against us" posture. We sound like bullies, especially when we are not talking about lifetime enemies. ”

“ We hold these truths to be self-evident. That all men are created equal. That they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights. That among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. ”

“ The sharing and learning will hopefully spark in our young students an interest in science and astronomy, and a drive to continue their education in reach of the stars. the College of Hawaiian Language is a leader not only in Hawaii, but across Native America. Many tribes are looking to UH Hilo for guidance in perpetuating their native language. ”

“ Many are uncomfortable with the term and so I use it advisedly. This world is ruled by regimes, not all necessarily in our own image. In fact, many are ruled in ways that we would not approve. But then again, is it our place to pass such judgment? ”

“ The potential for UH Hilo has gone way beyond what was envisioned when the doors of this campus were opened 56 years ago.
You should be very proud of the degrees you are receiving today. You have earned them, and you have earned them from a first-class institution. ”