Select an option below to continue reading this premium story.
Already a Honolulu Star-Advertiser subscriber? Log in now to continue reading.
Transgender rights recognized by the EEOC
May a transgender female have the right to use the ladies room?
Yes, according to the U.S. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The EEOC found that Kelli Keawe, an employee with the Hawaii Paroling Authority, might have been discriminated against because she was told to use a "gender-neutral" restroom instead.
It should come as no surprise. The EEOC held in a 2012 ruling that intentionally discriminating against someone on the basis of gender identity or transgender status is a form of gender discrimination and actionable under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Hawaii is beautiful, but it’s dangerous, too
It should be obvious that jumping from the popular cliff at Spitting Caves can be deadly. The currents are strong and unpredictable, and climbing back up the steep, slippery rocks can be difficult.
This hasn’t stopped scores of thrill-seekers from putting themselves at risk — as well as the rescue personnel who might have to save them.
Since November 2000, there have been at least seven reported drownings at the East Oahu attraction. The latest victim, a 22-year-old sailor named Shannon Nunez, died on June 8 after being swept away by strong currents. It’s especially tragic that most of the victims were young — in their 20s, their lives still ahead of them, with parents and other loved ones left to grieve. Jumping off the cliff at Spitting Caves is just foolish. Locals and visitors alike need to apply some common sense.