First Hawai'i. Next, the nation. Still cherishing the monumental victory we just achieved in getting money out of politics. SB 2471 is an accomplishment of, by, and for our entire community. The politics of greed is not inevitable. And our democracy is not for sale.
AI has made it easy to weaponize intimate images. In response, we must make it even easier for survivors to seek justice. As Amy Zhao, Imua Alliance Policy and Partnerships Strategist, wrote in Honolulu Star-Advertiser today, survivors should never be shamed into silence.
No excuses. November 25th is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Globally, nearly one of out of every three women experience physical, sexual, or psychological violence. Let's commit to stopping gender violence, always.
The glorious banyan at 'Iolani Palace. A nourishing reminder of the 'äina's endurance. The politics of the State Capitol may be mere feet away, but real power is found in the land that connects us, sustains us, and roots our sense of place. #Hawaii
Hawaiʻi Public Radio recently covered Imua Alliance’s efforts to call for a victim-led transition plan for the National Human Trafficking Hotline. We’re working to ensure this change doesn’t disrupt core services for survivors.
https://t.co/OaZjQdwPUI
Blue Angels have been flying over my condo this week. I'm sure many naps have been ruined. Okay, airplanes, now let's get in formation. Prove to me you've got some coordination. #Hawaii
The Library of Congress says a "coding error" caused the habeas corpus section of the Constitution to be temporarily deleted from its website. Pirates of the Caribbean warned us: the code is more like guidelines than actual rules. Sus timing indeed.
https://t.co/BxwSZe3TVQ
Justice wins. On July 1st, Gov. Josh Green signed SB 292 into law as Act 261, granting safe harbor protections to survivors of exploitation. Now, victims who seek medical or law enforcement assistance will not be held responsible for the harm they have endured. (1/2)
This measure shows what we can achieve when we uplift future generations and working families. It's a historic step in ending child hunger on our shores. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that strives steadfastly to provide hope to those who need it most. (2/2)
No child should go hungry in Hawai’i. Yesterday, I was honored to attend the bill signing ceremony for SB 1300, which provides free school meals for students who earn less than 300% of the federal poverty limit. #freeschoolmeals (1/2)
Kamala Harris appears likely to run for California governor in 2026. Thoughts, anyone? I'm curious to know what people think she'd be like following Gavin as leader of the world's fourth-largest economy at this moment in history. #KamalaHarris https://t.co/NXO263sUvK
Thank you, mom, for all the care and guiding light that has uplifted my journey. You are a living miracle whose love has championed so many dreams, and not only my own. Mahalo for all of it. #MothersDay
Hungry children can't learn. Mahalo to the four county council members–one from each county!–who sponsored this editorial in support of free school meals. Amidst economic uncertainty, let's guarantee food security for Hawai'i's children. #Hawaii https://t.co/B7DpPQOuBE
We’re still fighting for hope! We have one more bill left to pass during this year’s legislative session. SB 292 would provide “safe harbor” protections for survivors of sexual exploitation who seek medical or law enforcement assistance. (1/3)
WE DID IT! The State Legislature has passed HB 111, which empowers trafficking survivors to pursue civil lawsuits against businesses, owners, and operators that profit from exploitation. (1/3)
It’s Amy’s turn to speak! Meet Amy Zhao, Imua Alliance’s Youth Justice Advocate. You’ve heard her talk about our efforts to help survivors heal from sexual exploitation. Now, listen to Amy share her story about why she’s passionate about fighting gender violence.
Economic precarity directly impacts exploitation.
When people can’t afford food, housing, or other basic needs, traffickers can seize the opportunity to play the “savior” role and provide victims with a false sense of financial security. (1/5)
I will keep running toward personal restoration and self-awareness. I will keep believing in my own healing. I will keep cultivating deep connection. I will keep leaning into authenticity. I’m pouring out myself. I’d give it all for the view. The mountain is you. (5/5)
The mountain is you. Five years ago last week, I received the following text message: “It’s too bad your rapists didn’t kill you. I hope COVID finishes the job.” (1/5)
I see it, but I refuse to accept it. I will fight back, just by centering my humanity. To borrow from the singer Chance Peña, “Heart and my hands don’t fail me now; won’t let the weight of my fear go and knock me down.” (4/5)