Hawaii: What Is It Missing in the Modern Era?

When discussing life in Hawaii, it's important to look beyond its stunning landscapes and bustling tourist scenes. The state continues to face various challenges, many of which impact the everyday lives of its residents. Here's a comprehensive look at what Hawaii is still missing in the modern era, from affordable housing to access to essential services.

The List of What Hawaii Is Missing

In recent years, Hawaii has gained notoriety for its high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing and healthcare. The state is missing several key elements that enhance the quality of life for its residents. Here’s a list of what Hawaii lacks:

tAffordable housing tGood-paying jobs tDecent roads tThe ability to road trip tSonic drive-ins tThe super ferry tShipping to Hawaii tKmart and Sears tA spot without tourists tSufficient homeless shelters and outreach tAvailable mental health care tAffordable child care tAffordable access to quality education tA race track tA lottery tEqual representation by both parties in the government

While some of these items may seem trivial, they collectively contribute to a higher standard of living for individuals and families in Hawaii.

A Bridge to the Mainland

A proposal that gets some people excited is the construction of a bridge connecting Hawaii to the mainland. However, the toll fees might be steep, and the logistical and environmental challenges would need to be properly addressed.

Agricultural Land

An interesting idea is to create more agricultural land in Hawaii through land connections. This could potentially help reduce food prices and enhance local farming practices. However, such a project would require careful planning and evaluation to ensure it doesn’t harm the delicate ecosystems present in the Hawaiian islands.

Unique Absences in Hawaii

While many of the missing elements are related to basic amenities and services, it’s also important to acknowledge the absence of certain species that other states in the US would not have. For instance, Hawaii is lucky to be free from dangerous species such as snakes, bears, and other potentially harmful animals. However, this is not without its irony, as Hawaii is also facing a significant lack in certain human populations.

Native Hawaiian Population

Interestingly, one of the most pressing issues for Hawaii is the lack of a significant Native Hawaiian population. According to 2015 data from the Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for the USA, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders make up only about 9.9% of the Hawaiian population. Even among Polynesian islands, Hawaii is the only one where Polynesians don’t make up at least 10% of the population. This absence is a stark reminder of the persistent struggle for Indigenous rights and representation in the modern era.

Conclusion

Hawaii, while celebrated for its beauty and cultural heritage, still grapples with numerous challenges. From affordable housing to the lack of essential services, there is much work to be done to ensure a more equitable and prosperous state for all its residents. Addressing these issues will not only improve the quality of life for many but also help preserve the unique identity and culture of Hawaii.