MEDIA RELEASE

Jon Van Dyke

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) issued the following statement on the passing of University of Hawaii Law School Professor Jon Van Dyke.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my very dear friend, Jon Van Dyke, a celebrated legal scholar, ardent defender of human rights and the environment, and beloved educator, husband, and father.

“Hawaii has lost a steadfast advocate for Native Hawaiian and civil rights, a leading expert on Hawaiian land and water rights law, and a tireless defender of public lands and natural resources.

“The world has lost a man with a brilliant legal mind and compassionate heart, readily willing to travel great distances to promote and uphold international human rights and to preserve and protect the environment.

“Jon always stood up for what he felt was pono – right and just. He was an inspiration for our community and his students. Because of Jon’s work, the principle of protecting our cultural and historic resources has been preserved, and the tradition of sharing our beautiful beaches and other natural resources with all continues to be honored.

“He will be deeply missed by his family, students, colleagues, and all those whose lives he has affected around the world. On behalf of Millie and our ‘ohana, I extend our warm aloha, heartfelt sympathy, and prayers to his wife, Sherry Broder, and the rest of his family.”