Personal statement:
For more than 30 years, I have advocated for the betterment of the conditions brought on by the socio-economic, historical, cultural, and political oppression of the Kanaka Maoli. As a mother of eight with nine grandchildren, I have a deep concern for the future of our people. I believe that we have the opportunity to engage in the establishment and development of increasing our capacity to self-rule and right to self-determination of a sovereign government.
I recognize that the Kanaka Maoli is grossly over-represented in categories of incarceration, homelessness, and unemployment. I have dedicated my life to improving the overall well-being of marginalized indigenous populations.
As a delegate, I will contribute my experience, knowledge, and understanding of the benefits of self-determination. My vision is to support and ensure that the essential elements of our self-determination continue to exist while we build our nation by protecting our natural resources, rightfully claiming our ancestral lands, sustaining our traditional practices, economically diversifying, and developing offices to further these interests.