Aloha,
March was an eventful month. I had the opportunity to lead a delegation of Hawaiʻi agriculture leaders to meet with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This visit marked the 2nd Annual Hawaiʻi-USDA Policy Summit where we addressed the state’s most pressing agricultural issues with our federal agricultural partners.
Throughout March, we also celebrated Women’s History Month and recognized the two female Lieutenant Governors of Hawaiʻi who came before me—Jean King and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono.
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Sylvia Luke
Lieutenant Governor
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Advancing Hawaiʻi’s Agriculture: Strengthening the Foundation for a Sustainable Future
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I recently led a delegation of state, non-profit, and community leaders to the 2nd Annual Hawaiʻi-United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy summit in Washington, D.C., where we highlighted Hawaiʻi’s unique and vital agricultural sector. This was the first delegation to visit the USDA and meet with newly sworn-in U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins.
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With the majority of Hawaiʻi’s food being imported, our state faces unique challenges in maintaining food security and sustainability. This dependency on imports makes it even more critical to address these issues at the federal level.
During our visit, we met with USDA leaders to discuss key priorities, including Hawaiʻi agricultural imports and exports, truth in labeling, expanding biosecurity protections within the state, and supporting increased local agricultural production.
In Hawaiʻi, we must continuously explore ways to strengthen local food production and support our agricultural community. By fostering these partnerships and advancing our priorities, we can build a stronger, more sustainable agricultural future for Hawaiʻi, ensuring the resilience of our food systems for generations to come.
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Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Transportation Sector for Hawaiʻi
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Transportation is more than just getting from point A to point B; it's an essential service that often comes with hidden costs, deeply affecting families here in Hawaiʻi. Reliable and affordable transportation is vital for accessing jobs, education, healthcare, and other crucial services.
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to attend the Women in Transportation Seminar (WTS), where I connected with many professionals in the transportation field to discuss how they are working to address these issues.
WTS continues to advocate for women in the industry by breaking down barriers, nurturing leadership skills, and creating valuable mentorship and career growth opportunities. Their dedication to fostering a more inclusive transportation sector brings us one step closer to achieving an equitable workplace for all.
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Celebrating Women's History Month: Honoring Jean King and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono
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Happy Women's History Month! While I'm honored to serve as Hawaiʻi's 16th Lieutenant Governor, I'm only the third woman to hold this position.
This month, I recognized the two trailblazing women who paved the way before me—the late Jean King and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono. Check out this reel to learn more about the incredible legacies these women left behind and how they are inspiring the next generation of women leaders.
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Support the 26th Annual
State Employees Food Drive
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The 26th Annual State Employees Food Drive in support of Hawaiʻi Foodbank is underway now until May 9. Food insecurity is a pressing issue in Hawaiʻi, affecting thousands of families, including 90,000 keiki. This year, the State is also partnering with the City and County of Honolulu, setting a joint goal of raising 515,000 meals for Hawaiʻi residents in need.
Anyone can support Hawaiʻi Foodbank by donating online or dropping off non-perishable food at the Lieutenant Governor's office at the State Capitol, any Satellite City Hall, or any Honolulu Fire Department station for the duration of the drive.
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Annual Day at the Capitol: Raising Awareness
for Developmental Disabilities
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March is recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Hawaiʻi. Throughout this month, the Capitol hosts the annual Day at the Capitol event, which gathers hundreds of individuals—self-advocates, family members, service providers, and supporters—to raise awareness about the abilities and strengths of those with developmental disabilities.
I had the privilege of meeting some of these passionate advocates and individuals, welcoming them into my office for insightful discussions about the incredible work they do. Let’s continue to foster greater understanding and appreciation for the valuable contributions that individuals with developmental disabilities make to our communities.
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Mahalo to our Capitol Tour Groups!
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Senator Keohokalole's Capitol Visit & Talk Story Group
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Representative Matsumoto's Talk & Tour Group
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This month, we had a couple tour groups visit my office. It’s great to see so many people getting involved and engaged in our state government.
A big mahalo to Senator Keohokalole’s Capitol Visit and Talk Story group for taking the time to visit my office, and Representative Matsumoto for stopping by with her Talk and Tour Group Tour!
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Attending the blessing and groundbreaking of the new Campbell High School Athletic Complex.
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Attending Mayor Bissen’s State of the County Address on Maui.
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Attending Mayor Kawakami’s State of the County Address on Kauaʻi.
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Celebrating the grand opening and blessing of Da Market Lāhainā and Da Mobile Market.
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Joining the Maui community at Little Chef Big Chef to celebrate the Boys & Girls Club of Maui and the work they do for our keiki.
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Honokaʻa High School students presenting the Alphabet Project to highlight the importance of teaching Hawaiʻi’s cultural heritage to young learners.
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Attending Mayor Blangiardi’s State of the City Address.
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Honoring Grant Chun and his contributions to the community at the Maui Economic Opportunity Gala.
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Meeting with the Ka Ipu Kukui Fellows to discuss governance and leadership.
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Celebrating Kapaʻa Library’s 70th Anniversary with the community.
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Attending the Honolulu International E-Sports Tournament with participants from South Korea, Hawaii, and the mainland.
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Commemorating Prince Kūhiō’s legacy at the Prince Kūhiō Parade.
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Meeting with Ambassador Duarte Lopes of Portugal during his visit to the U.S.
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Hours
Monday to Friday
7:45 AM - 4:30 PM
(Except state holidays)
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Location
Hawaiʻi State Capitol,
415 South Beretania Street, 5th Floor
Honolulu, HI 96813
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