A federal judge says he’ll rule on Friday whether an election for Natives Hawaiians can proceed.

U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright heard arguments Tuesday in a lawsuit that says the state is improperly involved in a race-based election.

The state argues that while it played a part in compiling a roll of Native Hawaiians eligible to participate, it’s not involved in the election planned for next month to pick delegates for a convention to determine self-governance for Native Hawaiians.

Election leaders say it’s important for the historic election to move forward because it provides an opportunity for self-determination that has evaded Native Hawaiians since the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom.

Seabright says he’ll rule from the bench with an explanation for his decision. He’ll issue a detailed written order later.