Support Pacific Island Marine Sanctuaries

In the next three years we have our sights on increasing marine protection in US waters through the creation of two new National Marine Sanctuaries: one in California with the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, and one in Hawaii with the creation of the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary. Creating the proposed Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary within the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Monument and the Pacific Remote Islands National Marine Sanctuary (PRINMS). These Sanctuary designations will provide stricter protection and can avoid challenges from future administrations stripping marine and cultural protection for resource extraction.

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NOAA Considers New Rule to Increase Protection Oceanic Whitetip Sharks

In a public hearing August 20-21 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration conducted hearings seeking comments on a proposed rule to extend protective regulations for threatened oceanic whitetip sharks under section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act.  The public can submit comments on the rule until Sept. 15.

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Shark Attacks Occuring Early in Hawai’i

The shark season is heating up early in 2024, with four incidents in Hawai’i by June. Although Maui has the notoriety of the most shark attacks in the Hawaiian Island chain, all incidents occurred on the island of Oahu thus far according to Hawaii’s Department of Aquatic Resources (DAR). Read how you can avoid getting bitten by a shark and still enjoy the ocean.

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Hawaii’s Spiritual Connection to the Shark

Sharks play an important role in art, legends, and even spiritual beliefs. Throughout Hawaiian folklore, stories, legends and myths feature sharks as deities and their interactions with humans. Sharks as individuals, and as symbols, are even revered by many native Hawaiians. Some species of sharks, like the Tiger shark, have a special status as ‘aumakua, or family guardians.

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Pacific Islander and Asian American Heritage Month – A Hawai’i Perspective

May is recognized as Pacific Islander and Asian American Heritage Month established to recognize the history, contributions, achievements and importance of Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans. With mixed Asian- Hawaiian blood, I represent two island peoples, both who have suffered from discrimination, but also two races who are close to ocean. In recent years I have learned about Hawaiian cultural values like pono (wisdom ) and malama, (care) for the ocean has been recognized by the state of Hawai’i.

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