Research | HCUniversity

CENTER FOR INDIGENEOUS STUDIES

HARVEST CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

Center for Indigenous Rights and International Law

HCU

Launch of the Center for Indigenous Rights and International Law (CIRIL) at Harvest Christian University

Harvest Christian University is proud to announce the establishment of the Center for Indigenous Rights and International Law (CIRIL). This new center is dedicated to advancing the understanding, protection, and promotion of Indigenous peoples' rights through rigorous research, education, and advocacy within the framework of international law.

Statement from the Director of CIRIL

"We are thrilled to launch the Center for Indigenous Rights and International Law at Harvest Christian University. CIRIL aims to be a leading hub for scholarly research and practical solutions to the challenges faced by Indigenous communities worldwide. Our mission is to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous rights, promote legal and policy reforms, and support Indigenous peoples in their quest for justice and self-determination. We look forward to collaborating with scholars, practitioners, and Indigenous leaders to make a meaningful impact on the global stage."

About CIRIL

The Center for Indigenous Rights and International Law (CIRIL) will focus on:

Conducting cutting-edge research on international legal instruments and their application to Indigenous rights.
Providing educational programs and resources to students, legal professionals, and the public.
Engaging in advocacy efforts to influence policy and legal reforms at national and international levels.
Collaborating with Indigenous communities to support their efforts in achieving justice and self-determination.

This project examines the rights of Indigenous peoples under international law, focusing on key legal instruments, landmark cases, and ongoing challenges in implementing and enforcing Indigenous rights globally.

Department of Research at Harvest Christian University

Harvest Christian University (HCU) is not only a prestigious institution of higher learning but also a sovereign indigenous educational entity. As part of a sovereign nation, HCU operates under unique legal protections and privileges that allow it to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge and culture.

Status

HCU's status as an indigenous institution is recognized under Section 508(c)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, granting it educational sovereignty and the autonomy to develop curricula that reflect indigenous knowledge, languages, and cultural practices. This sovereign status enables HCU to maintain its independence from state and federal regulatory oversight while focusing on providing culturally relevant education to its students.The university's commitment to indigenous education is evident in its academic programs, which incorporate traditional knowledge and perspectives alongside contemporary academic approaches.

HCU offers courses that explore global indigenous issues and emphasize the development of indigenous knowledge, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Under the leadership of HRM Dr. Edmund Keli'i Silva Jr., Sovereign King of Hawai'i and Royal Chancellor of HCU, the institution further solidifies its connection to indigenous sovereignty. This unique position allows HCU to bridge traditional indigenous wisdom with modern educational practices, creating a truly distinctive learning environment for its students.

Department of Research Status

Harvest Christian University (HCU) enjoys several specific protections and privileges as an indigenous educational institution:

Educational sovereignty: HCU has the autonomy to develop curricula that reflect indigenous knowledge, languages, and cultural practices.
Legal protections: As an indigenous institution, HCU operates independently of state and federal regulatory oversight.
Tax-exempt status: Under Section 508(c)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, HCU is recognized as a tax-exempt organization, allowing it to focus resources on providing education without federal income tax obligations.
International recognition: HCU's status is recognized internationally under the Hague Convention of the United Nations Charter, allowing it to operate and be acknowledged across international borders.
Accreditation: HCU holds accreditation statuses with three international accrediting bodies, including the Kingdom of Hawaii Royal Accreditation Commission (KOHRAC), which specifically accredits indigenous education programs.
Cultural preservation: The university can design programs that honor and preserve indigenous cultural heritage while providing comprehensive education.
Self-governance: As part of a sovereign nation, HCU operates under unique legal protections that allow it to maintain its independence and focus on culturally relevant education.