Without science we would in all probability still be living in caves. Without fully understanding the proven scientific functioning of the universe of which we are an integral part, we would not fully understand ourselves.

Let us not be bound by concepts and ideas whose times have passed. In Mauna Kea we have the singular gift of building the Thirty Meter Telescope. Our own scientists, as well as those of Canada, Japan, India and China, have been waiting for the TMT for nearly a decade.

Regarding sacredness, every inch of the Earth is sacred. Regarding Hawaiian gods and goddesses, they are relics for the past. Death does not distinguish one culture from another.

The problem in our state, however, is more fundamental. The existence of a kingdom within our borders is in contradiction to everything we stand for in this country. The Kingdom of Hawaii should be done away by law and those who do not recognize the United States should be allowed to relocate elsewhere with our full support.

Abolghassem Abraham Sadegh

Hilo

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