Define: E Pili Ana

E Pili Ana is a legal term in Hawaiian law that refers to the concept of ancestral land rights and the connection between Native Hawaiians and their traditional lands.

Native Hawaiians who can demonstrate a direct ancestral connection to the land in question may be eligible to claim E Pili Ana.

E Pili Ana grants Native Hawaiians the right to access and use ancestral lands for cultural, religious, and subsistence purposes, as well as the right to protect and preserve the land.

Proving ancestral connection typically involves providing genealogical records, historical documentation, oral testimonies, and other evidence that establishes a direct link between the claimant and their ancestors who occupied the land.

E Pili Ana can only be claimed for lands that have a significant historical and cultural connection to Native Hawaiians and their ancestral heritage.

E Pili Ana primarily applies to lands held by the state or federal government, but in some cases, it may also be applicable to privately owned lands if they have a strong cultural significance to Native Hawaiians.

The process for filing an E Pili Ana claim involves gathering the necessary evidence, submitting a formal claim to the appropriate government agency, and participating in any hearings or negotiations that may be required.

If an E Pili Ana claim is approved, the claimant may be granted certain rights and protections over the land, such as the ability to access and use it for cultural practices, subject to any restrictions or conditions imposed by the government.

E Pili Ana claims can be subject to legal challenges, particularly if there are competing claims or disputes over the ownership or use of the land. However, revoking an approved E Pili Ana claim would require a legal process and strong justifications.

While E Pili Ana grants certain rights and protections, there may be limitations or restrictions imposed by the government to ensure the sustainable management and conservation of the land. These restrictions are typically aimed at balancing the rights of Native Hawaiians with broader societal and environmental interests.