A descendant of the Native Hawaiians, Akaka is currently the only member of the Senate with Chinese ancestry. He is famous for his dedication and role in human rights affairs.　

Born in 1924 in Hawaii to parents of Native Hawaiian descent, Senator Daniel Akaka currently serves as the only member of the Senate who also has a Chinese lineage. He was a civilian worker before becoming an active member of the U.S. Army and later served with the Army’s Corps of Engineers during World War II. As Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, he oversaw issues that dealt with the American Indian, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native populations. People credit his success to his contributions and continued involvement with the Japanese American community.