UPDATE: Demonstration Seeks Visitors’ Support of GMO Moratorium

Photo courtesy of Nicholas Garrett.

By Maui Now Staff

A peaceful public demonstration seeking visitor support of the recently passed GMO moratorium in Maui County was held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 28.

The “Mālama ʻĀina” event was organized by Babes Against Biotech and Ocean Defender Hawaiʻi, and included processions to Wailea Beach from both the Ulua and Polo Beach parking lots in Wailea.

“We are reaching out to visitors who also love our beautiful island,” said Lauryn Rego of Babes Against Biotech in a press release announcement. Rego raised concern about GMO crops at Monsanto’s Kīhei operation up the road.

Ocean Defender President Oriana Kalama also commented before the event, saying, “The fight to save the oceans begin on land. Every single problem affecting our oceans originate on land.”

“We will be asking our visitors for their help in protecting the place we all love so much,” said Rego.

Organizers say they asked those in the visitor industry to join them in protecting Maui from chemical pollution and the biotech industry.

Organizers said visitors were encouraged to sign a petition at the event website asking that the county enforce the GMO Moratorium in good faith.

The demonstration proceeded to Wailea Beach, where participants were met by canoe and other watercraft for prayer and song.