who we are
Get to know us
We are a group of grassroots community advocates volunteering our time to HULI PAC. Many of us have witnessed, during oral testimonies, the problem of being the minority voice, observing seated representatives voting against the ‘aina or the majority of testifiers. The majority rule currently allows the continuation of colonial structures, corporate rule, and methods over ‘ike Hawai’i for ‘Aina and its people to thrive.
We must collectively understand the individual power we carry as Hawai’i Island residents by getting involved.
How did we begin our journey?
We stay curious, jump into opportunities for positive change, ask why?, observe, listen, and find problem-solving solutions.
The toughest of all is when we don’t see our vision supported. We must recognize the urgency to uplift leaders who can be the change we value. The (political) system as we know it thrives when we turn our backs.
We surround ourselves with trusted advisers, our kupuna, guiding the path toward deepening our cultural foundation and knowledge to create the future we want for generations to come.
HULI PAC
Huli has multiple meanings: to change, turn over or to search, to seek
It also is the name for the top of the kalo (taro) plant, which is used for planting the next generation of crops.
HULI PAC was born from a shared drive to rework our system by seeking indigenously progressive-minded, ‘āina-based, equity-focused leadership for our Hawai’i Island community.
Now more than ever we need leaders who are willing to circle back to our roots and instill real change to regenerate and transform our Hawai’i Island community.
Our Vision
To empower our local community to elect pono leaders, nurture our relationship with the ‘āina, and inspire environmental, social and economic well-being.
Our Mission
We endorse and support candidates and office holders of integrity who serve the 'āina and people of Hawai'i Island.
Abundant Kalo of Waipio
The ʻōlelo word huli means:
To turn, as in - to reverse or to change an opinion or manner of living
To turn, as in - to change, affect, overturn, reform
To look for, search, explore, seek, study
The top of the taro plant which is used for planting and replanting
Our community supports our mission and vision for the island of Hawai’i
Alena Gamiao is a Native Hawaiian Kama’aina from the moku of Kona; she is a musician, educator, and community builder.
Kona’s Kaleo Wassman, is a Native Hawaiian; lead singer-songwriter for the band Pepper.
HULI PAC is a multigenerational and multicultural group of advocates and organizers for uplifting the ‘aina and people of Hawai’i Island.
We welcome:
All Gender Identities
All Sexual Identities
All Cultures
All Abilities
All Religions
All Economic Statuses
HULI PAC does not tolerate hate. Creating a safe space for sharing vulnerable perspectives is of utmost importance, particularly for those in our community who face adversity. In order to maintain this, HULI has implemented practices and regulations to ensure that your voice can be heard safely. Should you have questions or concerns, please contact us.
How do I become a change-make?
VOTE & GET INVOLVED!
- Join our mailing list & volunteer with us!
- Testify for Bills, Amendments, and Resolutions that make a difference.
- Run for office and file in February 2024, no later than March 2024. Be the bold change we seek.
- Register to vote, volunteer, and register people to vote
- Vote because EVERYTHING you care about IS POLITICAL, even if you don’t believe in the current system. We remain a minority when we don’t participate.
- Vote during the Primary Elections on August 10th, 2024, to get grassroots leaders into office!
- Volunteer on Commissions and Boards.
- Join the Hawaiian Civics Club
- If you’re Native Hawaiian (especially a lineal descendant) or a Cultural Practitioner (Ex: Surfer, Lauhala weaver, fish with Hawaiian methods, salt gathering, kapa, hula, lei making, and so on…), you can invoke the Hawai’i State Constitution that protects Land Use, Water and Air so traditions can live on for generations to come.
"You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. You have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."
Jane Goodall