In a major victory for community members, descendants, and Native Hawaiian advocates, the Hawaii Department of Health has issued a Stop Work Order for the Individual Wastewater System (IWS) project at 4400 Oneone Road, which resulted in the disturbance of multiple human burials. This decision comes after persistent advocacy from the local community, cultural descendants, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) to protect iwi kūpuna and ensure the integrity of cultural and environmental resources in the area.
The IWS system project raised significant concerns among Native Hawaiian families and community members regarding the potential desecration of iwi kūpuna (ancestral remains) and the negative impact on the surrounding environment. Three descendants were arrested last week in an effort to stop the further disturbance of the burials. The site has long been known for its cultural and historical significance, making it a sensitive location for development.
"We mahalo the kia‘i, OHA, Native Hawaiian Legal Corps, and all those who stood up to protect our kupuna,” said Walter Ritte, Founder of Aina Momona, who advocated for the Stop Work Order after visiting the site this past weekend. “We especially want to thank everyone who called and emailed the Department of Health demanding this Stop Work Order. Their steadfast dedication has made this victory possible."
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