To the Stony Brook University Administration, and Representatives of Stony Brook at AURA Dr. Frederick Walter and Dr. Anja von der Linden:

It has come to our attention that through the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), Stony Brook University is in support of the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) on Mauna Kea. As curious explorers, we the students, faculty, alumni, and friends of Stony Brook University understand the value of reaching “far beyond” in the name of discovery. However, our more central value as members of Stony Brook University is to respect all peoples and cultures around the world. This includes our indigenous neighbors in Hawai’i, who are protecting their cultural center from this massive construction project. That is why we urge you to use your position at AURA to respect their choice and publically withdraw your support of the construction of the TMT on Mauna Kea, a sacred site to indigenous Hawai’ians.

We recognize that Mauna Kea provides suitable conditions for the TMT. However, there are alternative locations with the right conditions, such as on the Canary Islands. The TMT will open new possibilities for the field of astronomy no matter where it is built. 

We see our indigenous brothers and sisters fighting further construction on their sacred site, the equivalent of the Vatican for Roman Catholics. We have seen the arrests of Kupanas (elders) protecting Mauna Kea and are disgusted. We support their sovereignty, which has been denied for 120 years. The United States has too long a history of denying the dignity of indigenous people and silencing their voices. We stand with our brothers and sisters protecting Mauna Kea and the ‘Aina (land). As a large and respected research university, Stony Brook has the power to make a big impact. We urge you to stand with us and help put an end to this history of oppression and disrespect.