This past week, we saw the power of grassroots activism in action. With only two days to file a case against the state’s multi-agency release of bacteria-infected mosquitoes on Kaua‘i, our team of volunteers on three islands worked together to mobilize the community and meet the deadline just in time. Stand Together Hawaii’s Michelle Melendez reached out to her network for support, raising funds to cover the filing fee. Two brave Kaua‘i residents responded right away to her message, stepping up as pro se plaintiffs for the island. Hawai‘i Unites drafted a strong complaint based on the information in the final environmental assessment for Kaua‘i along with the concerns documented in our Maui case. An experienced paralegal guided us through the filing process, and our investigative specialist oversaw the entire coordinated effort.
Michelle and I shared our gratitude in an inspiring interview where we gave thanks to the people who keep us going with encouragement and good energy during these challenging times:
Mahalo to everyone who is with us on this journey. Your voice matters – all of the research, testimony, resources, outreach, and efforts are making a difference. We’re speaking truth and changing the narrative, and we will continue moving forward together to protect these sacred lands and the future of our natural world.
These lab-altered mosquitoes are a dangerous experiment on our island home. Hawai‘i Unites has taken the state to court over the mosquito releases on Maui, and our Temporary Restraining Order and Preliminary Injunction hearing is expected to continue early next year. We’re working with an excellent team of attorneys for our Maui case, and the experience we gain through this process is building a foundation for a powerful knowledge base and continued community activism.
We’re excited to announce that a generous donor has offered up to $2,000 in matching funds for all donations received from today through Wednesday, December 6, 2023. Your tax-deductible donation will help us reach our goal. Together, we are setting a precedent for a global movement that truly honors our environment and empowers the voice of the people.
Mahalo,
Tina Lia
Founder
Hawai‘i Unites
HawaiiUnites.org
Hawai‘i Unites is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of our environment and natural resources. Your tax-deductible donations help us to fulfill our mission of honoring and protecting our sacred connection to the natural world.