Letter: Majority of Native Hawaiians Support TMT

National media coverage of the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) has consistently reported that Native Hawaiians are against its construction.

We from Perpetuating Unique Educational Opportunities Inc. (PUEO) strongly disagree with these claims.

Latest polling on O‘ahu shows not only a majority of voters support the TMT project, but support from Native Hawaiians has grown into a majority.

PUEO is buoyed by the news of poll numbers conducted by Ward Research for the Star Advertiser showing 76% support for TMT with 57% of Native Hawaiians in favor.

As we have stated, PUEO hopes to bring a vision of clarity and unity to the process through the perpetuation of unique educational opportunities for our children. We believe that our voice of inclusiveness is getting heard in our communities, and that moving forward with aloha, and integrating culture and science are in the best interests for Hawai`i’s future.

PUEO is a Native Hawaiian led nonprofit dedicated to enhancing and creating educational opportunities for Hawai‘i’s youth and their communities. PUEO’s focus on bridging traditional knowledge and scientific opportunities are specific to Hawai‘i and Hawaiian Culture.

In addition to the restoration of the voyaging canoe, Hokualakai, we also provide opportunities for kids to engage in hands-on, inter-disciplinary learning environments. Our intent is based on a unifying vision of Hawaiian language, culture, science, technology and exploration.

PUEO seeks to provide and enhance the opportunities for our children to continue the Hawaiian tradition and culture of exploration and learning to all members of our communities.

PUEO recognizes the importance of Hawai‘i’s children to seek knowledge from all sources in order to survive and thrive and to create careers that sustain the survival of their families and needs in Hawaii into the future.

PUEO was born to assist our children in this traditional and noble journey.

For more information on PUEO, visit www.alohapueo.org.