Aloha Friends,
It is with a renewed sense of resolve and commitment that we announce the formation of the Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA). It is my hope and the goal of our diverse Board of Directors that HAPA will play a major role in helping to nurture and protect the people and the environment of Kauai and our entire State in the months and years ahead. Please read the information below and visit our website to find-out more http://www.hawaiiallianceforprogressiveaction.org
If you can help with a contribution for the “Campaign to Defend Hawaii’s Future” and or if you are interested in joining the movement by joining HAPA, please do so. To be successful we need your support and help.
1. Revitalize and support grassroots democracy through action and advocacy (“Take Back Government”)2. Community and environment over corporate agenda (“People over Profits”)3. Local solutions to global challenges (“Think Global, Act Local”)
Statewide Coalition Launches Non-Profit Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA):
“Critical time to build on successes of the past year”
(LIHUE) – Leaders from around the State of Hawaiʻi have joined to form a new 501(c)(3) non-profit that builds on the recent successes of local communities against trans-national chemical corporations operating in the islands.
The Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA) is a Kauaʻi-based, statewide organization. “HAPA is committed to a solutions-based vision that values health and the environment above corporate profits, and most importantly, fostering grassroots democracy and community engagement in local governance,” said HAPA Board President and Kauaʻi County Council Member Gary Hooser. “We are at a critical point in time, with both corporate influence over politics as well as citizen discontent and engagement at all-time highs. HAPA is an action-oriented organization that believes we must act now to preserve and leverage recent successes for democracy, social justice and long-term sustainability. Now is our opportunity for residents across the State to claim their government, participation and power.”
HAPA’s first action is to launch its “Campaign to Protect Hawaii’s Future”. This campaign focuses on defending the islands from efforts by a small group of international chemical companies to undo protections gained through local legislation such as Kauai’s Bill 2491/Ordinance 960. “Rather than comply with our laws, these companies are suing our County for the right to spray poisons next to Kauai’s schools. They are lobbying at the State level to take away the counties’ powers. However, the people of Hawaii are energized and determined to fight back, and HAPA is determined to help them,” said Hooser.
HAPA launched its initial fundraising drive to support its campaign. Donations will go to support citizens’ initiatives that are defending against marketing campaigns, lobbying and lawsuits by the chemical companies. HAPA seeks to fund its programs through grassroots outreach and support from likeminded people from all walks of life. HAPA invites residents from around Hawaiʻi to get involved, donate, and join the movement at www.HAPAhi.org.*
“HAPA has a diverse Board of Directors whose composition is a reflection of the rainbow of cultures that make up our State,” said HAPA Board Member Aria Juliet Castillo. “Our Board members come from every County, with a diversity of backgrounds and expertise, but all hold a strong commitment to support grassroots democracy and core progressive values.” Founding Board of Directors includes: Paul Achitoff, Andrea N. Brower, Aria Juliet Castillo, Malia K. Chun, Bart Dame, Laura Harrelson, Gary Hooser, Ikaika M. Hussey, Bianca K. Isaki, Lorilani Keohokālole-Torio, Katie McMillan, Joshua Mori, Walter Ritte Jr., Karen Shishido, and Cade Watanabe.
HAPA is not engaged in any lobbying activity before the Kauaʻi County Council nor any government body. Gary Hooser serves as the President of HAPA in a volunteer capacity. Additional information can be found at www.HAPAhi.org.
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