In April, Punahou School’s Davis Democracy Initiative welcomed U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, capping off a fruitful inaugural year for the program – which was filled with venerable speakers exploring critical issues around democratic participation, civil rights, media bias, social justice, public policy and community engagement.
Senator Hirono drew an engaged audience – including Punahou President Mike Latham ’86 who moderated the event, as well as program founders Janie and Mark Davis – to Dillingham Hall. She fielded a variety of questions from students, delving into thought-provoking discussions such as what a comprehensive immigration package would entail, the challenges of affordable housing in Hawai‘i and how the country can strengthen an educational system that was battered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The conversation also explored the current state of voting rights and equitable access to the democratic process in the U.S., which is particularly timely as the general elections are in November. She encouraged audience members to make a difference at a national and local level by getting involved in their communities and voting once they turn 18. “Your actions matter,” the Senator said.
Since launching in 2023 – with a mission to promote civil discourse and active citizenship through programs, outside partners and student internships – the Davis Democracy Initiative has hosted a broad slate of formidable speakers, including U.S. Attorney Clare Connors ’92; award-winning author, activist and hip-hop historian Jeff Chang; esteemed Judge Dan Foley, known for his role in LGBTQ+ marriage equality; and distinguished California attorney Daniel Livingston, who presented on contemporary conservatism.
