CIVIL BEAT

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TRANSFORMATIVE CHOICES NEEDED

June 18, 2020 — “Unprecedented.” We hear that word a lot right now. Indeed, unprecedented times offer extraordinary opportunities.

The intense changes we are experiencing together as a result of COVID-19 are similar to the tumultuous metamorphosis a caterpillar undergoes. What a waste it would be if after all that radical cellular recomposition the caterpillar emerged only as a caterpillar of another color, failing to ever take flight as a butterfly.

We need transformation.

For too long we have underinvested in our people and our aina, which are our most-cherished core assets. As our state legislature reconvenes for its final weeks of session, we cannot afford to have lawmakers squander this time and opportunity by simply reinforcing the failed status quo. 

The pandemic and resulting recession has exposed our vulnerabilities and illuminated a new path forward for our economy and social welfare. We need to make several bold changes: 1) move focus from tourism toward growing food, 2) provide universal childcare, 3) provide universal health care, and 4) prioritize climate-ready infrastructure projects.

We are at a pivotal point in the history of our islands. I hope that our legislative leadership will have the courage to chart a new course and take us in the right direction.

P.S. - Read our June 18 campaign newsletter here, hear from Maile Meyer and join the movement. Let your voice be heard at the August 8 election for State House Representative of District 26.