The year was 2014, and Maui was in the middle of a political revolution: For the first time in the county’s history, a voters’ initiative made it onto the ballot, signalling an unprecedented effort of grassroots activism to directly govern with community-drafted and -approved legislation. The issue was genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the … [Read more...] about Monsanto to Pay $10.2M for Illegal Pesticide Use: Kihei residents and activists warned about violations for years
genetically modified organisms
Hawaii’s Sen. Mazie Hirono and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard talk GMO labeling
Looks like the U.S. Congress is discussing GMO labeling. Specifically, a recent bill from Republicans (who in theory prefer state’s rights over federal control) to squash a recent Vermont law that mandated labeling foods that contain GMOs (the so-called “DARK Act”). This didn’t sit well with U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, D–Hawaii. “As a longtime advocate for consumer choice, I … [Read more...] about Hawaii’s Sen. Mazie Hirono and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard talk GMO labeling
UPDATED: Federal Judge Strikes Down Maui County GMO Moratorium
Civil Beat in Honolulu is reporting that federal Judge Susan Mollway has struck down Maui County's controversial anti-GMO ballot measure, saying simply that because state and federal law preempts it, the bill is "invalid and unenforceable." “The court recognizes the importance of questions about whether GE activities and GMOs pose risks to human health, the environment, and … [Read more...] about UPDATED: Federal Judge Strikes Down Maui County GMO Moratorium
Maui OnStage ONO Series to present anti-GMO play ‘Star Crossed on Maui’
Here's something you don't see every day–a play about Maui's fight over genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Titled Star Crossed on Maui, the play will open (and close) Monday, May 11 at the Iao Theater in Wailuku as part of their ONO (One Night Only) monthly series. Don't expect a subtle, nuanced look at the GMO controversy. Written by Amorah St. John–a supporter of the … [Read more...] about Maui OnStage ONO Series to present anti-GMO play ‘Star Crossed on Maui’
The Initiative: Trying to understand Maui County’s GMO Ballot Measure
In the Haiku autumn dusk, a circle of farmers hand in hand stands to give thanks for the earth, food and the breath of life. In the sacred scene before a potluck of hand-grown and handmade foods, there are many hands, 120 heads, and waiting plates. At this September meeting of Maui Farmers United (a chapter of the National Farmers Union), local farmers gathered to discuss … [Read more...] about The Initiative: Trying to understand Maui County’s GMO Ballot Measure