Our beloved community spaces are under threat.  Bill 2294 is proposing to give the Department of Education (DOE) jurisdiction over public parks adjacent to public schools here in Hawaii, and it's already impacting our way of life. 

Imagine your childhood playground, where you saw your kids take their first steps, or where the neighborhood gathers every weekend for basketball games and community events. Now, picture "No Trespassing" signs and being told to leave the grounds that have always been yours. It's happening right now, and it's not what our community stands for.

Yes, it’s true that these spaces are occasionally taken advantage of, but that's a reality that can emerge in any community anywhere. The solution, however, isn't to drive people away. We need to foster more community involvement, not less. Taking away these parks from the public will not only restrict our freedoms but also diminish the strong sense of community and connection that defines us.

Public parks are a cornerstone for fostering community connections and engagement. They are spaces where children learn and play, where adults meet for exercise and leisure, where communities celebrate and support one another. Confining these activities undermines the essential role these parks play in our lives.

Instead of giving jurisdiction to a single entity, we should collaborate on solutions that allow everyone to benefit from these public spaces safely and responsibly. We urge local officials to consider alternative measures such as increased community policing, better lighting, and organized programs to keep parks safe while keeping them open to the public.

Please sign this petition to protect our community spaces and oppose Bill HB2294 in Hawaii.  Let's ensure that our parks remain open and welcoming to all, safeguarding the treasured community spirit that sets Hawaii apart. Join us in standing up for our rights and preserving our shared spaces for future generations.