HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0516.062 2024-2026From:
Terry McDonald
Sent:
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 11:11 AM
To:
Council Testimony
Subject:
Resolution 320-25
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To: Holeka Goro Inaba, Chair
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Dennis Onishi, Vice Chair
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Honorable Councilmen and CouncilWomen
Re: Resolution 320-25
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From Terry McDonald, Organizer and Leader, Indivisible Hilo One
Thank you for the opportunity to speak on this matter. Since Resolution 320-25 was introduced, I have
become a student of the Hawaii State Constitution. What a marvelous document it is.
Resolution 320-25 not only affirms the U.S. Constitution but is also firmly grounded in our State
Constitution. I was particularly moved to discover that, unlike the U.S. Constitution, Hawaii's
Constitution explicitly embraces multiculturalism in numerous provisions. The Preamble speaks directly
to this commitment, callingfor "understanding and a compassionate heart toward all the peoples of the
earth." These words are crystal clear and powerful. Hawaii is a state that believes in its diversity and has
taken many initiatives to support it. Resolution 320-25 represents the latest expression of this
commitment.
The rights to due process are enshrined in both the Hawaii and U.S. Constitutions with equal clarity.
"Every person" is entitled to these rights, without regard to immigration status. The current federal
government has taken what were formerly civil immigration violations, criminalized them, and subjected
individuals to deportation. This approach is as barbaric as it is inhumane. We cannot —and must not —
assist federal law enforcement in any non -criminal action, and Resolution 320-25 supports this principle
explicitly. It will be the responsibility of the Council and our new Police Chief to enforce this resolution,
and our responsibility as voters to hold everyone accountable. Pressure will undoubtedly be brought to
bear to "go along to get along," which is precisely why we must be clear from the start and hold violators
accountable, up to and including the Chief of Police.
Hawaii has a particular stake in protecting First Amendment rights and due process from a historical
perspective. During World War II, thousands of people of Japanese ancestry were interned without
warrants, without charges, and without any regard to their citizenship status. This is widely recognized as
one of our government's most serious breaches of the U.S. Constitution. Hawaii's Constitution reflects
that painful history and ensures we do not repeat it. Resolution 320-25 stands firmly on the right side of
history.
I am grateful to live in a state that has gone far beyond the U.S. Constitution in protecting its residents.
Comm.
Ref. To:
1 Ref. Dale T 242 2025
This Resolution affirms the most foundational values in both the US and Hawaiian constitutions, offering
the people of Hawaii additional protections from the most lawless regime in history. 1 urge the County
Council to pass this resolution, thereby affirming Hawaii's history and Hawaii's values as expressed in
our State Constitution.
Sincerely,
Terry McDonald
Hilo, Hawaii
Facilitator
Indivisible Hilo One
" ►Nhere Law Ends, Tyranny Begins"