Papahana Kuaola should be praised for the good work it does in the community. It provides culturally relevant educational opportunities for many people of all ages, including explorations in the important work of mālama ʻāina, or land stewardship.

A foundational part of Papahana Kuaola's mission statement is "to exemplify a lifestyle respectful of kānaka, ʻāina, and akua". The spraying of herbicides is a direct contradiction of this important tenant as it endangers the health of people, Hawaiʻi's flora and fauna, the stream waters of Heʻeia, and thus, the akua that inhabit these sacred, natural forms.

With great humility, respect, and aloha we ask that Papahana Kuaola cease the use of herbicides at its Waipao, Heʻeia site in Kāneʻohe, as well as all other sites it may dwell upon now or in the future. We ask this out of a deep sense of aloha ʻāina (love of the land), knowing that it is all of our responsibility to ensure that all ʻāina, from mauka to makai, is healthy, safe, and collectively managed for the benefit and well-being of the greater community.

We believe that Papahana Kuaola shares this aloha and this understanding of our kuleana to the ʻāina and the community, and we are hopeful that our plea for the safety of our lands and waters is heard.

Mahalo for your support. Aloha ʻĀina.