DMZ Hawai’i / Aloha ‘Aina is a network of organizations and individuals working to counter the military’s negative social, cultural and environmental impacts in Hawai’i. Intrinsic to our work is support for the human rights of Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) and promotion of aloha ‘aina (love for the land). The name of the network derives from the acronym “DMZ” for “demilitarized zone” to describe the spaces that have been reclaimed and liberated from militarization. The network works toward four goals:
1. Stopping Military Expansion in Hawai’i.
2. Cleaning up, restoring and reclaiming military controlled land in Hawai’i
3. Promoting the development of environmentally sustainable, socially just and culturally appropriate economic alternatives for Hawai’i.
4. Seeking just compensation for the military use of Hawaiian land and for damages to the environment and communities caused by decades of military occupation.
What We Do
The DMZ Hawai’i / Aloha ‘Aina network is guided by the ancient Kanaka Maoli prophesy, Ka Pule Wanana o Kapihe:
E Iho Ana o Luna All that is above shall be brought down
E Pi’i Ana o Lalo All that is below shall be lifted up
E Hui Ana na Moku The islands shall be united
E Ku Ana ka Paia The walls (of the structure) shall stand
- We work to confront powerful and oppressive institutions through research, analysis, public education, strategic communications, and direct action.
- We support efforts to build the power of grassroots communities to change social conditions through training and popular education, organizing and campaigns.
- We work to unite the islands, communities and constituencies in Hawai’i and globally that may be separated by distance and difference to create a broader movement.
- We engage in actions that confront unjust conditions and institutions and support efforts to develop sustainable alternatives.