Dear Mr. Governor...
Meaning of Aloha
On February 16, the Mauna Kea Hui delivered a letter Governor Abercrombie. The Hui outlined concerns about proposed military expansion and telescope construction projects that will impact public trust, conservation "ceded" crown lands on Mauna Kea--and invited him to join us, in the spirit of aloha 'āina
"We were inspired when you embraced the principles of Aloha in your campaign, when you called upon the people to join you in realizing a better future for Hawai'i Nei. We thank you for your many good works of Aloha throughout the years and congratulate you on your successful election--truly inspiring. To keiki o ka 'āina and kama'aina alike, Aloha is not just a word for boosting tourist industry profits, it is the breath of life and a state of being. Aloha is the truth that necessarily invokes righteous action. You so eloquently affirmed this in your speeches before the people holding that Aloha is what "...defines us." When we honor a healing truth, Aloha is magnified, bringing blessings to all upon the land. This is how the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.
While we hope to have many occasions to work with you for a better future, we pray that after careful review of the facts presented herein regarding the proposed astronomy military expansion projects on Mauna Kea, that you will reconsider your support for these immensely destructive projects, and join the people to find more reasonable, just, equitable and pono alternatives for the benefit of our present and future generations. We have faith in your leadership and believe a better future is close at hand, but will require us to stop relying on antiquated destructive paradigms, to redefine "progress" and to collectively embrace the true spirit of Aloha `Āina.
