During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the handling of cultural and historical preservation on Molokai. The island currently has 22 open cases related to intentional desecration and inadvertent discoveries linked to climate change and development. Local representatives expressed frustration over the lack of support from the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD), which is reportedly understaffed and unable to adequately address the needs of the community.

A key issue highlighted was the absence of SHPD personnel on Molokai, with only one lead archaeologist assigned to cover multiple islands, making it nearly impossible for timely assessments of cultural sites. The community has been left to navigate these challenges with minimal assistance, often relying on local law enforcement to address urgent matters.

Concerns were also raised about the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), with representatives calling for more proactive support in assisting descendants with claims related to burial sites. A request for help with administrative tasks was met with bureaucratic hurdles, leaving community members feeling unsupported.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the controversial actions of archaeologist Marshall Weisler, who reportedly removed human bone fish hooks from Molokai for testing without proper community consent. This action has sparked outrage among local residents, who feel that their cultural heritage is being disregarded. The community is demanding accountability and a return of the artifacts, emphasizing the need for respectful engagement with their ancestral remains.

Overall, the discussions underscored a broader systemic issue affecting cultural preservation across the Hawaiian Islands, with calls for improved collaboration and respect for local voices in the decision-making processes that impact their heritage.