Members of the Hawaiian Kingdom Government took over the grounds of the 'Iolani Palace, seat of Queen Lili'uokalani, for nearly four days in a peaceful protest against perceived US imperialism.

The 'Iolani Palace is currently a museum, open for school groups and paid tours.

Employees, volunteers, and tourists were prevented from entering during the occupation -- only members of the media were allowed inside.

"This is our seat of government and always will be," said Mahealani Kahau, elected leader of the secessionist group.

"As long as we have breath to speak, we'll be here."

The group claims that more than one million acres in the Hawaiian Islands were illegally seized during the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893, 11 years after the 'Iolani Palace was built.

"If you know the culture, how Lili'uokalani was overthrown, then you would understand the urgency of the Hawaiian people," said Marialena Kalamau, a member of the Hawaiian Kingdom Government.

"The white man came and made us think the government was overthrown -- it was not," added Kalamau's mother Dixie, also a member of the Government.

The protesters plan to re-establish the 'Iolani Palace as the seat of their Government.

"This is the manifestation of the frustration of the Hawaiian people for the loss of sovereignty and land," said Kalani English, a Native Hawaiian State Senator.

"This made a statement."

"It got the word out about the plight of the Hawaiian people."

Kippen de Alba Chu, executive director of the 'Iolani Palace, was highly critical of the protest.

"It is historically wrong for any individual or group to state that the palace is to serve as a Government building," said Chu.

"We welcome any group who would like to celebrate the history of 'Iolani Palace and Hawaii's monarchy in a historically appropriate manner that embraces all visitors."