Politics, at its worst, merely magnifies human failings. Humanity is deeply flawed, and through politics we choose which of our fellow flawed humans will govern the rest of us — then expect things to improve.
If the funding is there, why are retirees being told their payments may stop? Why is fear being placed on their backs? Why are the administration and current legislative leadership not being clear with the people?
FOR Pacific Islanders, the ocean is not merely a resource to be managed; it is central to their identity, culture, and survival. The ocean is viewed as kin, an ancestor, and the very source of life. Deep-sea mining poses a direct threat to traditional fishing and food security.
In our trove of writings we have a memoir of a physician, Dr. John Coulter, who spent a great deal of time among islanders. Through the pages of his account, “Adventures in the Pacific,” the cultural exchange is fascinating.