PRI Coalition Statement in Response to the 2024 Election

Shifting tides are a natural part of life. Time and again, nature’s wisdom guides us through challenge and change while reminding us of our responsibility to care for what sustains us. As we approach an upcoming shift in the White House, the Pacific Remote Islands Coalition remains committed to advocating for our ocean and communities across the Pacific.

Our Coalition — comprised of elders, fishers, cultural practitioners, navigators, scientists, nonprofit leaders, and storytellers from across Oceania — will continue to advocate for safeguarding the rich cultural heritage and ecosystems of the Pacific Remote Islands and the ocean that connects us. The ocean is a sacred part of our creation story, and we know our survival is inextricably intertwined with its health.

As a community-powered movement, protecting the ocean transcends politics. President George W. Bush initially established the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument. Then, in 2014, President Obama expanded the Monument, and last year, President Biden committed to fully protecting the area as a national marine sanctuary.

Our commitment to the ocean, our communities, and future generations is unwavering, as is our vision for a lasting legacy for the Pacific Remote Islands. Together, we will navigate these shifting tides and continue our collective work to protect and care for Moananuiākea.