Aloha,
The Legislature is taking action on TMT! It is not everything we dreamed of, but it is important.
HCR37: Text, Status
Link: Hearing set for Feb 10
Here is the story:
The Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate put forth the "Joint Resolution" linked above. The resolution calls for the Governor to create a Blue Ribbon Panel to discuss "reconciliation" with Native Hawaiians, with the first order of business being the situation on Mauna Kea.
Imua TMT is asking that we write in support of the sentiment of the bill, which is reaching a resolution on the TMT question in the most constructive way possible.
Please also ask the Governor to appoint Malia Martin and Samuel Wilder King II to the panel to represent the young Native Hawaiians that think TMT and Mauna Kea unite culture and science and therefore Mauna Kea is the perfect place for TMT.
Here is the testimony Imua TMT is submitting:
Testimony in support of the intent of HCR 37
TMT has the legal right to proceed. That should not be coupled with addressing all issues confronting all Native Hawaiians. Thus, while we support the sentiment of this resolution, that these larger conversations should be had, TMT should not be delayed any further by these discussions.
Indeed, TMT will directly benefit Native Hawaiians. TMT will uplift thousands of Native Hawaiians by giving us access to an economically advantageous, sustainable, and culturally relevant global industry through scholarships, jobs and investments. No reconciliation process should stand in the way of such an incredible gift.
Mahalo, and Imua TMT!
Mailani Neal
PS: Imua TMT panel discussion on Big Island on February 16, 2020, at Grand Naniloa 2 to 5pm
Check out the panel discussions on Imua TMT's Facebook page to see Native Hawaiians speaking out in favor of TMT:
Below are some links to their online shop, calendar of events and donation link to support their mission of getting the TMT built here in Hawaii.
---30---
Related: House-Senate Resolutions call for (yet another) Blue Ribbon Commission on Hawaiian Issues