Hilo Military meeting with community on National Historic Preservation Act concerning cultural, religious, and historic sites at the military Pohakuloa Training Area
This meeting was one of the most insulting I ever attended in my life. The military turned away people at the door that had not sought prior permission to attend even though the notice sent out did not state that requirement. It is clear this is just a legal requirement for the military and they have no intention of seriously addressing questions that may restrict or stop their bombing plans, even on a base known to be contaminated with Depleted Uranium radiation. As for a question that the military address an exit plan for Pohakuloa with their lease expiring in 2029, it was very clear the they have no intention of leaving. That is how occupation works. How dare we raise that question and insist that the the entire area of Po-haku-loa –“the Land of the Night of Long Prayer” is sacred. It’s viewed as the heavenly realm of unity between the three great mountains –Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai.This entire area should be designated an historic site of cultural and religious significance. To bomb such an area is desecration pure and simple! Auwe!
