The Mana`o of Lucienne “Luci” de Naie

Candidate for East Maui Council gives us her thoughts.

Lucienne de Naie is a small business person, researcher, author, grant writer and community activist. She has lived on a subsistence farm in rural East Maui for the past 23 years. This year she is a challenger for the East Maui Council seat, currently held by Bill Medeiros. The Molokai Dispatch had a chance to ask de Naie a few questions about her 2008 campaign.

What recent accomplishments qualify you for a council seat?
East Maui communities have worked together for many years to get water returned to our streams. We did research, held meetings, forums, and protests and went to court. Many said our cause was hopeless. This month, the first water will be released. I’m proud to have played an active leadership role in this landmark effort.

There is much more to do to care for our land, waters and people. As a former executive assistant to Councilmember Michelle Anderson, I understand how our laws work, and how to put them to work for our people.

What sets you apart from your running mate, incumbent Bill Medeiros?
As an independent candidate, with no ties to any big money interests, I’ll be free to advocate for what is best for you and your family. To see more of who I am, and what I stand for go to ElectLuci.org.

Should large corporations and single industries be the main source of jobs?
When I testified at the LUC hearings on the proposed La’au Point development, last year, I saw the people of Molokai speaking out strongly for another type of future. Many are actively working towards that same goal right now, with the Molokai Plan.

Like the people of Molokai, many rural communities in Maui want to shape a future that honors the wisdom of the past and our host culture. A future with a healthy, locally-based economic system. This may not be an easy task, but it is one that we must strive towards.

I have spent the last three years serving on the Maui island GPAC, listening to the ideas, hopes and dreams of our people. Nothing would be more rewarding that to have the opportunity to serve as a Council member and put my research, planning and problem solving skills to work for all the people of Maui County.

Everyone in Maui, Moloka’i and Lana’i can vote for all nine Council seats, so please don’t leave your ballot blank. If you believe we need leadership for change, please vote for Luci de Naie on November 4.