An event today that aims to raise awareness about a national day of prayer for "Hawaiian restoration" will feature speakers detailing 19th century President Grover Cleveland's support of Hawaiians' rights and national sovereignty, even after American businessmen and the U.S. military overthrew Hawai'i's queen and sought annexation to the United States.

A letter to the New York Sun, purported to be written by Cleveland, designated April 30, 1894, as a national day of prayer for Americans to seek "repentance" for injustice to Queen Lili'uokalani and pray for her speedy return to the throne.

Published in February 1894 — about 13 months after the overthrow — the letter has inspired Hawaiian groups, along with various churches and other organizations, to establish tomorrow as a Day of Prayer for Hawaiian Restoration.

Three speakers will address Cleveland's efforts and related matters at 6 p.m. at the Church of the Crossroads, 1212 University Ave. They are: Poka Laenui, an advocate of independence for Hawaiians; Kuhio Vogeler, a doctoral student in political science at the University of Hawai'i; and the Rev. Kaleo Patterson, president of the Pacific Justice and Reconciliation Center, which is coordinating the event with the United Churches of Christ and other groups.

After the overthrow of Queen Lili'uokalani in January 1893, the coup's leaders declared a republic and requested annexation to the United States. Cleveland investigated the situation and refused, saying the queen should be restored to power. It wasn't until 1898, when Cleveland was out of office, that Hawai'i became part of the United States. It became a state in 1959.