Travel ban challenge good for democracy

As Larry Bodine knows, we are usually very accepting people here in Hawaii (“Hawaii too risky for vacationers,” Star-Advertiser, Letters, March 18).

However, there are some things that we have to stand against. All of us here are immigrants; we all came from other places, and found here a unique place where people of all races and creeds may live together in relative harmony, cooperation and respect. So Mr. Bodine can understand why we really had to say, “Sorry, no can” to President Donald Trump’s travel ban.

Yes, it is about our economy, but it is much more about our hearts. It is the way we are, and we feel disrespected and marginalized by this executive order.

It was never our desire to disrespect the presidential office; rather, we believe we enhance that office and America’s democracy when we respond boldly and contribute effectively to the debate.

Aloha, Mr. Bodine. So sorry for the offense.

Mark Yasuhara

Aiea

—

Kurokawa a valued public servant

Congratulations to Gary Kurokawa on his appointment as chief of staff to Mayor Kirk Caldwell (“Mayor’s chief of staff retiring,” Star-Advertiser, March 22).

Oftentimes, we residents don’t recognize people who take their duty seriously and perform it beyond what the job requires. Gary is that kind of person.

As the mayor’s representative at the Pearl City neighborhood board meetings, I noticed how he always arrived early or on time, and was candid and approachable. He even stayed after the meeting to put away the chairs.

His quick response to concerns and his candid mild manner in his presentations really represented the mayor well. I’m sorry I didn’t thank the mayor for such a great representative.

However, I’m glad the mayor recognized this humble servant’s character and dedication to duty.

E. Ileina Funakoshi

Pearl City

—

Pregnancy clinic bill would stifle speech

Once again, Democrats seek to impose their will on a group of constituents when no such precedent exists to do so, or need to do so is required. Senate Bill 501 would require pro-life counseling services to advertise the other alternative, abortion services, at their sites, many of which are churches in Hawaii.

Many of these counseling services exist as ministries of the church and are protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution, a fact overlooked by 23 senators, many of whom are lawyers. I would hope there is not a similar astigmatism in the House, where sit a number of lawyers as well.

This is a shameful attempt to intrude on a viable ministry that is an alternative to the readily available services promoted by those in the abortion industry. If the House should be so incautious, perhaps the governor will have the wisdom to recognize this intrusion on the First Amendment right of free speech and the requirement that Congress make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion.

Bob Gillchrest

Pawaa

—

‘Originalism’ goes back a long way

How nice to possibly have an “originalist” in Judge Neil Gorsuch for the U.S. Supreme Court (“No one will be above the law, high court nominee promises,” Star-Advertiser, March 22).

He can deal with issues like the right to bear muskets, the problem of runaway slaves, wives being the property of their husbands, and so forth.

Alvin Murphy

Manoa