About a dozen Thirty Meter Telescope supporters wave signs along Wailuku’s Main Street on Friday afternoon, a day before a major rally today at the War Memorial Stadium and UH-Maui College against the proposed telescope atop Mauna Kea on Hawaii island. Signwaver Trina De Lima of Upcountry said: “I am Hawaiian and I’m excited for the TMT. I understand the mauna is sacred and I think the telescope is important enough to coexist. All the people should have a say.” Lahaina’s Lark Canico said the project would bring funding and other benefits to education in Hawaii. “As an educator myself, I absolutely see the merit of the TMT. A lot of us say we want change in Hawaii, and I think that comes with educating the youth. TMT fortifies that.” 

SECOND PHOTO: “A lot of people say there are only a few Hawaiians who support the TMT, but I think there is a silent majority of Hawaiians who do,” said Brialyn Onodera while holding a sign Friday that read, “Ask Why This Hawaiian Is Pro TMT.” She said she moved from the Big Island to take a job at the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakala. “I think the poll that said 50-50 of Hawaiians is more accurate. I think Mauna Kea is sacred, but I also think Hawaiians view astronomy as sacred. TMT will bring a lot of good to the community through education and outreach.” 

The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photos