Autobiography of Protest in Hawai‘i explores the state’s social and economic fabric through the comments of 35 progressive activists. The activists, ranging in age from the mid-30s to the late 70s, comment on their involvement on issues such as housing, labor, land use, poverty, environment, sexual harassment, seniors, and sovereignty. Almost one-half are women and there is an even split between those born in Hawai‘i and those born elsewhere.
The book begins with an overview of political activism in Hawai‘i, and then records the oral history of the individual activists. Each was asked to respond to factors that shaped their moral and political lives. They were invited to explore the forces and events in their past that led them to take on an activist role. The activists were also asked to provide personal assessments of insights gained from their experiences and how they can be applied today, their analysis of Hawai‘i at that time, and some speculation on Hawai‘i’s future.
The result is a book that produces some very interesting and controversial viewpoints on Hawai‘i’s political socialization and history.
