Hawaii Constitution Article XV State Boundaries; Capital; Flag; Language and Motto

Hawaii Constitution – Article XV: State Boundaries; Capital; Flag; Language and Motto

🔹 Overview:

Article XV of the Hawaii Constitution addresses fundamental symbols and territorial definitions of the State of Hawaii. It covers the state boundaries, the official state capital, the state flag, the recognized language(s), and the state motto.

🔹 Section-by-Section Summary:

Section 1 – State Boundaries

Defines the official boundaries of the State of Hawaii.

Specifies that these boundaries include all islands that comprise the state.

Section 2 – State Capital

Designates Honolulu as the official capital city of Hawaii.

The seat of government is located there unless changed by law.

Section 3 – State Flag

Establishes the design of the State Flag of Hawaii.

The flag features:

Eight horizontal stripes representing the main islands.

The Union Jack in the canton (upper left corner), reflecting Hawaii’s historical ties to the United Kingdom.

Section 4 – Official Languages

Recognizes both English and Hawaiian as the official languages of the state.

Supports the preservation and use of the Hawaiian language in public life.

Section 5 – State Motto

Declares the official state motto:

“Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ‘Āina i ka Pono”
(Translation: “The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.”)

🔹 In Summary:

AspectDetails
BoundariesIncludes all islands of the state
CapitalHonolulu
FlagEight stripes + Union Jack canton
LanguagesEnglish and Hawaiian official
Motto“Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ‘Āina i ka Pono”

🔹 Purpose:

Article XV preserves key symbols and identifiers that define Hawaii’s unique cultural heritage, historical background, and territorial integrity.

 

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