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O'ahu Army Lease talking points O'ahu Army Lease talking points
July 09
In 2021, hundreds of you, our supporters, submitted comments to the Army about what the scope of their EIS should be. We called for a future that prioritizes health, healing, and peace at home and abroad. Unfortunately, though their DEIS is lengthy (1,000+ pages), it does not meaningfully address any of the concerns we previously raised. Here are some points to consider, for either written or spoken testimony
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March 01
GMO Labeling Rally
March 24
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Environmental Justice

Learn more about KAHEA's environtmenal justice programs and campaigns.

Fundamental to environmental justice, is the idea that all people have a right to a healthy environment – no matter what community they live in, or what their race, color, nation or origin or income.

KAHEA's environment justice programs today focus primarily on serving the estimated 40,000 residents of Wai`anae, on the island of O`ahu. Many of the environmental “bads” that result from unsustainable food, energy, and transportation systems fall disproportionately on residents of the Wai`anae Moku, where over 60% of residents are Hawaiian.

Sign-waving on Farrington Highway

These communities have some of the highest rates of asthma in Hawai`i. Cancers, and other diseases, like diabetes, related to environmental stressors are also of concern to Wai`anae Moku communities. Improving health services and preventative care is incredibly important. It is also important that we put resources towards addressing the root environmental stressors that contribute to incidence of these diseases.

It is a common misperception that poor health stems solely from individuals making unhealthy choices.  Study after study confirms that our economic, social and built environments shape health. We must address the root of of these inequities, including solutions for environmental injustice.

Wai`anae is blessed with rich natural, cultural and human resources. Wai`anae Moku residents have worked for many years towards the restoration of lands and waters where they live and work. Today, this is represented by a growing movement and a growing coalition, building on these past successes and pushing forward. Younger community members are joining with kūpuna, engaging in active cultural practice and joining the effort to defend agricultural lands, air quality, water and stream quality, and human health.

Lo`i at Ka`ala Cultural Learning Center

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Mahalo!

Our Environmental Justice program has been made possible through gifts from our generous 'ohana of donors, and the amazing investment of the Hawai'i People's Fund, the Atherton Family Foundation, Groundwork Opportunities, Koaniani Family Foundation, and Hawaiʻi Community Foundation in our work.

You can join this effort by giving a gift today!

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