Ola I Ka Wai: Hawaiʻi Water Law
Water is a resource held in trust for the people of Hawaiʻi. The public trust doctrine prioritizes Native Hawaiian traditional and customary practices and the health of free-flowing streams and coastal life over private commercial uses. Despite this and other constitutional protections, water has historically been mismanaged and private profits prioritized over sustainable management for community, cultural practices, and the long-term health of the environment. As a result, Hawaiʻi has suffered dry stream beds, habitat loss, change in water temperature, degradation of coastal ecosystems, increased risk of invasive species and wildfires, and, in communities without steady access to fresh water, ...
NHLC Mourns the Passing of Puanani Burgess
NHLC mourns the recent passing of Aunty Pua Burgess, a beloved kūpuna, leader, and friend to many including NHLC. Aunty Pua served on our board from July 8, 2010, and as board president from October 2014 to September 18, 2015. Her commitment to justice, Hawaiian culture, and the lāhui was an inspiration to us all. We were honored to recognize her service at our 41st Anniversary Fundraiser in 2015 and again at the CNHA Convention in 2016, where she received the Native Hawaiian Advocate Award. Aunty Pua’s legacy of leadership and advocacy will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are ...
