On June 16, 2015, the Critical Ethnic Studies Association issued a statement in support of the kia‘i of Mauna Kea-- the inspiring, committed protectors of a sacred summit on Hawai‘i Island. The kia‘i are fighting to stop the construction of a proposed Thirty Meter Telescope, which would destroy many cultural and environmental resources of Mauna Kea. Nearly two months later, the kia‘i continue to stand strong on the mountain, despite increased policing, new "emergency rules" and arrests, as well as the Governor suggesting the possibility of the National Guard being called out to remove the kia‘i. In the face of violence, the kia‘i continue to maintain a practice of kapu aloha, a discipline of compassion, kindness and love, towards all. In order to further share information and foster support of the struggle at Mauna Kea, as well as a similar struggle over a proposed telescope on Haleakalā on the island of Maui, we offer this blog series. We will be featuring writing from many Kanaka Maoli and allies involved with organizing for Mauna Kea in Hawai‘i and elsewhere. For those interested in finding ways to support, from signing petitions to donating to legal defense funds, check out our list of places to start here.

Maile Arvin, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Ethnic Studies

University of California, Riverside