Okimura regularly posts content about the issues affecting Pacific Islanders, and one recurring topic is tourism.
Tourism has proven harmful to Native Hawaiians.
A lot of tourists treat our land like it’s some theme park,Okimura explains.
Waikiki coastline (Photo: SergiyN/Depositphotos)
This includes approaching endangered animals when it is strictly off-limits.
Sure, you have the right' to travel wherever you want, but does that make it right?
What does that say about you to disregard all of this because What about my vacation?'
Waikiki coastline (Photo: SergiyN/Depositphotos)
Tourism doesnt benefit most Native Hawaiians.
Those who do work in the industry are overworked and underpaid.
A majority (51%) of thoseexperiencing homelessness on the islands are natives.
Instead, tourism benefits large corporations and developers that are, by and large, not from Hawaii.
If tourists are determined to visit Hawaii, Okimura offers some ways to minimize the harm.
One way is to avoid giving money to the hotel industry and Airbnbs, which non-residents mostly own.
It’s best to stay with someone they know who already lives there.
Another way is to experience Hawaii beyond the typical touristy activities.
And finally, visitors should leave things as they found them.
Pick up trash and dont take anything from the environment like sand or rocks.
Native Hawaiians have a deep connection to the aina, the land, Okimura shares.
A lot of tourists treat our land like it’s some theme park, Okimura explains.
If tourists are determined to visit Hawaii, Okimura offers some ways to minimize the harm.
Another way is to experience Hawaii beyond the typical touristy activities.
And finally, visitors should leave things as they found them.
Pick up trash and dont take anything from the environment like sand or rocks.
