Real world Quote by Noelani Goodyear-Ka'opua
““Because of these lengthy and protracted court battles, it is important for Kanaka Maoli farmers to remember to assert their rights in the real world. Not only does this punctuate the legal battles taking place in the courts, but actively asserting your rights sheds light on the injustice that is happening to the Kanaka Maoli. In the end, our rights are undeniable, and the actions taken by the brave taro farmers in the face of the Goliath corporation EMI, as well as the state of Hawai‘i, serve as a reminder that we have rights to our ‘āina, our resources.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Indigenous Rights Forum, Hawai‘i, 2023
Advocates that Kanaka Maoli farmers must actively claim their land and resource rights, turning legal struggles into visible, real‑world actions that expose injustice.
In simple terms: Farmers should assert rights publicly to highlight unfairness.
Take decisive, public action to protect your land.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- farm protests
- legal advocacy
- media campaigns
- policy negotiations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can public demonstrations strengthen legal claims?
- What risks do farmers face when confronting powerful corporations?
Legal victories alone may not change on‑the‑ground power dynamics.