Abuse of power
This is regarding “An opportunity to regulate” in the June 26 Tribune-Herald.
In the course of our history, there have always been excuses to sidestep the constitutional rights of the governed by those who govern and “know better.”
We citizens of Hawaii appear to be in one of those phases now.
We need a new name for our legislators, state and local. I suggest GESTAPO.
Bernard M. Geiger
Hilo
‘Redeeming hope’
Growing up, the red, white and blue “Stars and Stripes” were adorned with patriotic well-being. Causing conflicting emotions today, the beloved American flag can be a painful reminder of Hawaii’s illegal overthrow.
One day, justice will be done. Until then, Queen Lili‘uokalani’s desire for forgiveness and love continues in the aloha spirit.
Touring through Glacier National Park with a Native American guide, it included driving past a vast development of veteran housing. Inquiring at the high percentage of vets, with pride the man explained how the Blackfeet perpetuate their warring cultural heritage by serving in the U.S. military.
Meeting two fun-loving young women on a Maui flight, our friendship began. Originally from East Turkistan, a country illegally annexed by China, they are Muslim Uyghur refugees seeking asylum in the United States.
Months later on a visit to Washington, D.C., we reunited. Meeting one of them at Arlington National Cemetery, she wore a red shirt with an American flag on it “to honor the veterans,” she said.
Hours later in the August heat, surrounded by acres of grave markers, I complained of thirst, bemoaning the lack of water to drink. Immediately my young Uyghur companion responded with an incredible insight.
She suggested it was good we were suffering. The deprivation and discomfort would make us more appreciative of the sacrifices made for our country’s freedom.
Just like every one of us, the United States has its faults and failures. Yet, as demonstrated by these oppressed and persecuted individuals, there is redeeming hope.
Michele Lincoln
Lahaina, Maui
