The issue on Mauna Kea is not about a telescope, despite official pronouncements. A telescope in outer space would be more beneficial for everyone, since there wouldn’t be any atmospheric distortions.

What’s it all about, then? The way some government officials have approached this issue smacks of greed, misappropriated power and racist attitudes. Some officials only “respect” Native Hawaiians if they allow themselves and their resources to be exploited. Their right to practice their religion freely is violated. When they assert their natural human rights, they are bullied. That’s not “respect.” Just as Kahoolawe has had protectors, so does Mauna Kea. If an agency has the power to grant a permit, it also has the power not to.

Native Hawaiians are best able to determine appropriate uses of Mauna Kea. As a haole resident of Hawaii for more than 40 years, I support them in doing so.

Eileen Cain

McCully-Moiliili

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