This is Molokini! A small crater island 2.5 miles off the coast of Maui.
It’s a beautiful island that’s currently a protected wild life reserve for its amazing coral, bird, whale shark and general marine life.
However! During WWII it was used as target practice by Americans, much like the island of Kaho’olawe. Many bombs were dropped on both islands destroying its natural wildlife, as well as thousands of undiscovered archeological sites and artefacts detailing the lives of native Hawaiians.
Once the bombing had ended, it’s rare black coral reefs were pilfered and sold on the black market. In 1975 and 1984 the US navy detonated unexploded bombs effectively destroying the slowly recovering marine wildlife. Afterwards Molokini was deemed a protected marine wildlife and bird sanctuary. Recently, unexploded bombs have been discovered on the island.
Despite the island being a protected wildlife sanctuary the Navy plans to detonate these bombs in July 2020 with absolutely no input by local leaders or Hawaiian people. Too long Hawaiian land has been militarized, and disrespected with no consent from its people. With the destruction of Mauna Kea, and the detonation of bombs off the coast of Oahu near Lanikai, the threat to Hawaiian people and wildlife near Molokini is too far. Please take a moment to sign this petition to prevent the bombing of Molokini.
If you’re wondering why you’ve never heard of this, it’s because political issues surrounding the degradation of Hawaiian lands, culture, and people almost never make it to national news. Keep updated on issues surrounding Hawaii, and remember to support its people who are still effected by colonization! Mahalo for reading and please share!
Prevent the Bombing of Molokini, July 2020
