We have lived and worked on this land for generations, cultivating a deep and abiding connection to Waimea's vibrant landscape. Our history, our stories, our cultural legacy are intertwined with these lands. And now, these lands, which hold the memories of our ancestors and the future of our children, are under threat from powerful tech billionaires and faceless developers eager to profit at the expense of our community.

In recent years, the beauty and serenity of Waimea have attracted a growing number of investors interested in converting pristine landscapes for their own use without the input of locals. The sale of ancestral lands not only disrespects the sacred connection that we have with the land but also risks erasing our cultural heritage and identity. It undermines the principles of environmental stewardship and community well-being that have been the cornerstone of Hawaiian culture for centuries.

A report from the Hawaii State Data Book highlights an alarming trend: over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in land transactions involving large outside corporations. These deals often result in the displacement of local families and the permanent alteration of the landscape. Furthermore, the potential environmental impact of these developments, such as increased pollution and habitat destruction, threatens to irreversibly damage the delicate ecosystems of Waimea.

This is not just a local issue; it's a matter of cultural survival and environmental justice. We, as a community, can stand together to protect our lands. Instead of selling off parcels to the highest bidder with no ties to our home, we need to push for legislation that prioritizes local ownership and robust environmental assessments before land sales are approved. We urge lawmakers to enact protective measures that will safeguard our lands for future generations: setting zoning restrictions that favor conservation and community-use, and establishing land trusts that empower native Hawaiian families to retain their lands.

Join me in this fight to preserve the soul of Waimea and honor the legacy of those who walked this land before us. Sign this petition and let’s send a powerful message that Waimea's future should be decided by those who know it best—the people who call it home.