Presumably thinking he’s got nothing left to lose politically in the second half of his final term, Governor David Ige last week unveiled one of his most brazen (read: worst) proposals yet and suggested that all public workers – including teachers and first responders – take a pay cut to make up for anticipated budget shortfalls due to the COVID-19 pandemic. News of the cuts … [Read more...] about Gov. Ige Talks Cuts: The governor receives criticism for proposals to cut pay for public workers
‘This Is Our Moment’: Commission on the Status of Women proposes a feminist COVID-19 recovery
As Governor David Ige floated the idea of pay cuts for teachers and other state employees last week, the Hawaiʻi State Commission on the Status of Women offered a different take on how the state should cope with economic losses from the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike the governor’s proposal to recover anticipated budget shortfalls by skimming the paychecks of already underpaid … [Read more...] about ‘This Is Our Moment’: Commission on the Status of Women proposes a feminist COVID-19 recovery
Maui Food Hub Launches to Connect People and Farms
Farmers have been acutely affected during the pandemic, and are exploring unique solutions to help distribute produce. The Maui Food Hub is one such project and launched last week Friday under the direction of the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United and in collaboration with farmers and nonprofits across Maui. The hub, which is accessible at www.Mauifoodhubs.org, has long been the … [Read more...] about Maui Food Hub Launches to Connect People and Farms
Growing Hope: During a pandemic, gardening takes on new meaning
There are many names for the uncertain time we’re living in, but after some contemplation Kevin Watkins II settles on “The Great Pause.” Itʻs not as grim as “the COVID-19 crisis,” “a global recession,” or a “public health emergency,” all of which could also be used to describe the present moment, depending on who you’re talking to. “The Great Pause” is a more optimistic … [Read more...] about Growing Hope: During a pandemic, gardening takes on new meaning
The Kanaha ʻOhana Finds its Voice: How COVID-19 has rallied the forgotten homeless
We were talking about public housing options when it started to drizzle. Raindrops tapped on the sunbaked blue tarp that half-covered our heads and evaporated quickly from the hot ground. As the sprinkle turned to a shower, I looked up and angled my head for shelter. “Come,” Aunty Penny motioned to me with her hand, inviting me out of the rain, deeper into the home she … [Read more...] about The Kanaha ʻOhana Finds its Voice: How COVID-19 has rallied the forgotten homeless