On March 1, 2025, a new presidential Executive Order declared English as the official national language of the United States. This order reverses a previous mandate that required federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to offer language assistance to non-English speakers.
However, this change does not affect Hawaiʻi's recognition of both English and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi as its official languages. The Hawaiʻi Judiciary has reaffirmed its commitment to allowing individuals to communicate with the courts in either language. Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald emphasized, “Respect for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is a core value of the Hawaiʻi Judiciary.”
In Hawaiʻi, approximately one in ten residents have limited English proficiency. Without acknowledging and addressing these language needs, many individuals appearing before the courts or receiving services from the Judiciary would be unable to fully participate in the justice system.
The Judiciary has invested significant resources into improving language access services for court users. Chief Justice Recktenwald stated, “We are proud to provide such services, including court interpreters for all parties, witnesses, and persons with a substantial interest in a case and language services at all points of contact with the Judiciary, whether in person or over the telephone.”
Recktenwald further assured that “the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary remains fully committed to providing court interpreters to persons with limited English proficiency or speech or hearing impairments.” He added that they view this service as essential for ensuring meaningful access to the courts.