It’s not that I’m against science; it’s that I’m against the desecration of lands that are culturally significant and sacred. Not to mention the numerous violations of prior telescopes built on the mauna.

I’m fully aware of the advantages that the Thirty Meter Telescope could have for science, education and our world. At the same time, however, it’s first and foremost essential that we — outsiders — respect and honor the kanaka maoli and their culture. We can’t just force things down people’s throats and make them choke.

There may be many who agree or disagree with my stance of saying a‘ole to TMT; this is an ongoing emotionally heated debate. However, I’m sure that we can all agree that this matter should be dealt with in the most civilized and humanistic way possible.

Open discussions and dialogue should be taking place between both sides. The state should not be arresting people who are peacefully standing for what they believe in.

Dylan Okihiro

Aliamanu

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