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In a world full of dismaying news for the aina: Mahi Pono gets caught using paraquat, a much more dangerous compound than Roundup. They announce they won't be using Roundup anymore, in an attempt to mislead and greenwash their bad behavior. Friday the 14th, state legislators walked out, leaving no quorum, to vote on a bill implementing regulations about pesticide drift and buffer zones. A fight, ongoing since 2013, to hold agrochemical companies accountable and to regulate their pesticide practices, continues.
When I asked who from Maui had walked out on the vote, I learned that Rep. Lynn DeCoite had. She has sided many times before with this industry, as she is a "Monsanto-friendly" farmer. I was disheartened but not surprised.
Imagine my and our community's relief and joy when Walter Ritte announced he was running for DeCoite's seat. Finally, great news for the aina. Walter Ritte is beloved and respected in the community, in the lahui. He is a caretaker of the land, a teacher and mentor for many. He has stood for decades to preserve and protect. I have marched with him against GMOs. We have stood for Haleakala and Mauna Kea.
He has been an activist for the aina since the '70s in Kahoolawe. He is our Bernie. Someone consistent, trustworthy and authentic. Someone experienced, who will uphold the Hawaiian values to protect these islands from continued corporate assaults. He is kanaka maoli, and this is his time. Register to vote. Aloha aina.
Sierra Knight
Kula