Students gathered for a Lunch and Talk Story with Adriel Lam, the Republican candidate for Hawaiʻi’s 1st Congressional District, for a conversation about civic engagement, public service and issues facing Hawaiʻi.
Lam, a retired U.S. Army officer, spoke about his experiences in military and community service and encouraged students to participate in the democratic process. He emphasized the importance of civic education and voting, telling students that their voices matter in shaping their communities.
During the Q&A session, students asked Lam about Hawaiʻi’s relationship with the federal government, the state’s strategic role in the Pacific and the intersection of faith and government. Lam also discussed opportunities for greater federal and military partnership with local communities on infrastructure, education, water and wastewater needs.
The conversation also touched on freedom of speech, religious freedom and the values Lam said inform his approach to public service. Throughout the discussion, he encouraged students to seek out information, ask questions and remain engaged in the issues affecting their communities.
