Letters to the Editor
Friday, July 12, 1996

Gang beating verdict
is indictment of a sad society

The verdicts handed down to the three teen-agers who beat Misiona Faumuina to death can be summed up in one word: unbelievable.

It proves that the massive media infusion and glorification of gang lifestyle has desensitized many to the violent acts that accompany these groups.

What is even more disturbing is that this desensitization has perpetuated an erosion of common sense. In this case, it should have been obvious that the loss of life would merit a much harsher verdict - murder instead of manslaughter.

I cannot help but agree with the mother of the victim, Afiona Faumuina, when she stated that "the law is not there to protect the victim."

Perhaps this is fitting for a society that constantly blurs issues of what is right and what is wrong to various shades of gray.

Randy Dela Cruz
Aiea


Let's wave our thanks to
Hawaii's lifeguards

I am continuously impressed by the amazing professionalism of our lifeguards. The rescues off Kahala Beach on Monday are only the most recent example of a long run of super performances.

If anyone doubts that they should have the funds to purchase equipment such as Yamaha Wave Runners, please note that four individuals likely owe their lives to the foresight of those in the lifeguard service who insisted that this equipment is essential.

I also applaud those legislators who have understood that water safety is also an essential part of keeping Hawaii a desirable place to live and visit, by authorizing the proper funding.

They should continue to pay extremely close attention to our professional lifeguards when they submit their budget requests.

The safety of all of us depends on it.

Jeremy Morrow


Hawaiians must take that step
toward sovereignty

It is unfortunate that the ongoing Native Hawaiian vote continues to confuse and divide our people. We must remember that this vote is but one spoke of the wheel in the struggle since the loss of our nationhood over 100 years ago.

There is no one group that has a monopoly on answers for the Hawaiian people. The vote is an important first step toward re-establishing Hawaiian sovereignty. The election of delegates to our own constitutional convention will not take place until needed educational forums - including proposed government models - are held throughout these islands.

All groups and individuals can run their own candidates for the convention. Gathered elected delegates will combine the best of their collective ideas for ratification by a majority of the Hawaiian people.

I have always felt that OHA should be the bridge that leads to the new Hawaiian nation. Democracy through the Native Hawaiian vote is our best bet.

Any Hawaiian constitution must be ratified by the Hawaiian people at large; anything less smacks of totalitarianism. Are those who oppose the vote afraid their ideas won't stand the test of popular scrutiny?

Moanikeala Akaka
Trustee
Office of Hawaiian Affairs


Voters should just say yes
to Hawaiian sovereignty

Ka Lahui's self-serving fabrications notwithstanding, I urge all Hawaiians to vote "yes" in the sovereignty vote and get the ball rolling toward real sovereignty.

Regina E. Gregory


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