Aloha UHPA Members,
In recognition of the dramatic political changes threatening higher education, UHPA is taking a stand. We are joining the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) at the “No Dictators” event on October 18th to demonstrate our deep concern over harmful actions and policies being issued by the current administration that impact the University of Hawai‘i system and the future of higher education.
Just as the inaugural “No Kings Day” in June drew significant attention to the need to resist authoritarianism, our collective and visible participation at this event will send a powerful message to the White House and leaders across the nation.
In Hawai‘i, the importance of resistance is deeply understood, having experienced the oppressive shadow of colonization. We know that America was founded on democracy, run by the people, for the people, and we will not be intimidated when our sovereignty and dissent are threatened and silenced.
This national event is our crucial opportunity to counter those who seek to erode access to education—precisely the tool needed to recognize and counter dangerous political regimes and the uprising of dictators. By joining this protest, we are defending the University of Hawaiʻi and the core of democracy for our nation.
Stand With UHPA Leadership on Oahu
Your UHPA Leadership is leading by example and will be participating at the rally taking place at the State Capitol. We urge all UHPA members to stand in unity and solidarity.
To ensure we mobilize effectively, please note the logistics for the Oahu rally:
- When: Saturday, October 18 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. (UHPA leadership will be there from 11 a.m. – 12 noon)
- Where: Hawai‘i State Capitol (415 S. Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96813) – be on the lookout for UHPA signs.
- Solidarity Gear: We will provide UHPA branded t-shirts for you to wear if you choose.
- Bring Your Voice: We encourage you to bring your own signs and your fighting spirit!
- RSVP: If you plan on attending, please RSVP at the link below: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc00f2vp6hb9bz4JoWVVFqXWE6mJnX8tQYVBhfUfJ2oJydSeQ/viewform?usp=header
Neighbor Island Members: Join the Collective Action
Your support from the Neighbor Islands is crucial. We encourage you to join the collective action by attending one of the rallies on your island. Please see below and visit the AFT and Indivisible Hawaii sites for up-to-date information on times and locations. Your presence, regardless of the island, strengthens our powerful collective stance. Please remember to take pictures and send them to sdayan@uhpa.org.
Hawai‘i Island
Hilo
11 am – 1 pm / Makai side of Bayfront (Hwy 19), Pauahi Street & Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720
Waimea
10 – 11 am / Mamalahoa Hwy (19) In front of Ikua Purdy Monument + Parker Ranch Center, 67-1185 Hawai‘i Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Kailua-Kona
4 – 5 pm / Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway, south of Henry St., behind Mormon Temple
Na’alehu
12 – 1 pm / Hwy 11 near Na‘alehu Post Office
Maui
Kahului
4:30 – 6 pm / Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center, 275 W Ka‘ahumanu Ave, Kahului, HI 96732
Lahaina
12 – 2 pm / 1221 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761
Kihei
4 – 6 pm / West Lipoa Street & South Kihei Road
Kauai
Lihue
3 – 5 pm / Kukui Grove Center, Kaumualii Hwy Ste 1710, Lihue, HI 96766