Why Save Makua?

By Andrea DeCosta, Editor in Chief 

Photo by Megumi Abe

Ask many native Hawaiian activists about reasons for saving Makua Valley and it all comes back to one word. Kuleana.

In the Hawaiian culture, kuleana is often coupled with other cultural practices, such as ho‘oponopono, which allow individuals to find agreement with one another. Within the natural world, this balance has been sought in many areas of Hawai‘i – most recently, Makua Valley on leeward Oahu.

UH professor, Kahu Kaleo Patterson led his PACE485 class, “Topics in Peace and Conflict Resolution”, on a field trip to Makua Valley to demonstrate the value of ho‘oponopono within the larger community. In doing so, students are exposed to issues of sovereignty and reconciliation which have long divided the community.

Since 1943, the Army has controlled the valley, utilizing it for live fire training which many claim has undermined sacred cultural spaces and the fragile ecosystem. Militaristic use of native sacred lands has incited the ire of those families displaced by the military occupation.

Operating under a lease with the state through 2029, the Army appears intent on maintaining their position at Makua and improving their public image. Under the direction of Col. Matthew Margotta, the Army has formed a coalition of organizations and individuals that represent the community, with plans to work together toward a resolution. For many, this resolution cannot come soon enough.

Descendant of displaced residents and long-time activist, William Aila, points to a five-generation plan for restoration. Aila, a member of Hui Malama of Makua, refers to efforts which would turn the area into an economic engine for the Waianae coast, “They already made a promise to return it and we do want it back.”

In a recent AP release, Aila was critical of the coalition and frustrated at being left out of the process. “It’s great for PR,” said Aila, “to give the impression that things are hunky-dory here in Hawaii. But it doesn’t reflect the reality on the ground.”

That reality includes what some claim is the desecration of three heiau’s, a devastating “planned” brush fire in 2003 that consumed half of the 7-mile area, and the newly discovered human bones which are indicative of more burial sites. These factors form the underpinning of the conflict, as well as the source of "kuleana", or responsibility, so heavy on the minds of many within the community.

According to Aila, “Saving Makua is important to demonstrate our kuleana, honor our ancestors, and honor the generations that have yet to come.”

To learn more, visit http://www.maoliworld.com/group/savemakua