Hawai'i is famous for its breathtaking views and rich culture. However, its greatest treasures lie in its deep connections to spirituality and the natural world. Central to this heritage is Pelehonuamea, the revered goddess of volcanoes and fire. The fight to protect her sanctity and the rights of her descendants, the Kanaka ʻŌiwi, has ignited a significant struggle in the Puna community. This post explores this ongoing battle, the history of the Pele Defense Fund, a pillar in the truth and major force in past geothermal battles on Hawaii island, and the modern developments that continue to shape this story.
The Historical Context
The Pele Defense Fund is a widely known force which was established in 1985 from a coalition of religious practitioners and descendants of Pelehonuamea. Their mission was clear: protect the life force of Pele and the rights of the Kanaka ʻŌiwi in the richly biodiverse area of Wao Kele O Puna. This effort symbolizes the spiritual identity of the island. Now in 2025 there are still some of these same members, including lineal descendant of Pele, still fighting for Her freedom.
As the demand for alternative energy sources grew, financial and political interests began to push geothermal energy projects, which threatened these sacred volcanic areas. In response, the Pele Defense Fund partnered with local residents, environmental groups, and even national organizations, forming a strong coalition against land exploitation.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Pele practitioners held protests and community education efforts to raise awareness about the importance of preserving their sacred spaces. Their determination resonated deeply, fostering unity within the community as they fought to honor Pele's spirit.
The Cultural Significance of Pele
For the Kanaka ʻŌiwi, Pelehonuamea is not just a figure from mythology; she embodies the natural world and its powerful forces. The push for geothermal energy threatens not only the physical landscape but also disrupts Native Hawaiian cultural practices and beliefs that are intimately tied to the land.
The Kanaka ʻŌiwi see honoring Pele as a recognition of their ancestors and the principles guiding their connection to the Earth. Threats to this connection challenge the very essence of their culture and identity. For instance, according to a 2021 survey, nearly 70% of Hawaiian residents oppose geothermal development on sacred lands, highlighting the community's strong sentiments about preserving their cultural heritage.
Heres a very good report on this subject to help with the understanding of the significance of Madame Pele in Hawaiian Traditions -->
"The Cult of Pele in Traditional Hawai 'i
H. Ario Nimmo 1
ABSTRACT
This paper is an attempt to reconstruct the cult of Pele, volcano goddess
of Hawai'i, as it existed in pre-European Hawai'i. It is based on English
language sources, including translations from Hawaiian and various Euro-
pean languages, and is intended to be a compilation of the earliest descriptions
of the Pele cult. Primarily descriptive with minimal interpretation and
analysis, the discussion includes (1) Pele within the context of Hawaiian
religion; (2) the mythology of Pele; (3) traditional beliefs about Pele; (4) the
ritual leaders or priesthood of Pele; (5) ceremonies for Pele; (6) offerings to
Pele; and (7) the role of Pelie in sorcery. The conclusion presents a summary
of the major features of the traditional cult and a brief discussion of the
continuing belief in Pele in contempo rary Hawai'i."
Link here to this 47 page report from the Bishop Musem -> http://hbs.bishopmuseum.org/pubs-online/pdf/op30p41.pdf
The 1994 Turning Point
By 1994, growing public opposition to geothermal development pressured developers to pause their plans for transmission lines to Oʻahu. This shift rejuvenated the movement for cultural preservation, but the fight was far from over.
In 2010, the geothermal threat resurfaced, as developers sought to reclaim the land. The Pele Defense Fund and its supporters were compelled to intensify their efforts, confronting those who disregarded Native Hawaiian rights and the intrinsic value of the land. Puna geothermal venture is still fracking and drilling kīlauea ruthlessly as we speak, in 2025, ignoring and actually criminally concealing all calls for help by the native hawaiian community.
Current Developments and the Role of Activism
As of 2025, the Puna community is strongly supporting the sacred rights of Pele and the Kanaka ʻŌiwi through the 'A'OLE PGV movement. Activists are collectively opposing development pressures that do not respect the spiritual importance of their ancestral lands.
Organizations like Aloha Activism ( which holds LERZ Puna News Weekly within) play crucial roles by closely monitoring 2025 Supreme Court proceedings and keeping the conversation alive. This ensures vital information reaches the community, fostering support for ongoing efforts.
Moreover, activism focuses on education, highlighting the implications of geothermal energy not just for the environment but for spiritual health and cultural identity. Initiatives aimed at raising awareness are critical for both local and wider audiences.
The Power of Community Voices
Community activism is vital in the fight to protect Pelehonuamea's realm. Collaborations among local residents, environmentalists, and cultural practitioners highlight the power of collective action. This coalition has demonstrated resilience against commercial interests and a deep connection to the land.
Increased awareness of the spiritual and cultural consequences of geothermal development has unified community members. Local gatherings serve as platforms for education and inspiration, bringing together diverse voices in solidarity for a common cause.
Understanding Legal Frameworks
The legal framework surrounding Native Hawaiian rights and energy development is complex. The achievements and obstacles encountered by the Pele Defense Fund and other advocates over the years have established crucial precedents. Over the past 36 years, there have been 36 lawsuits initiated by various community members. However, each new energy proposal introduces distinct challenges that demand continuous vigilance and legal expertise. This is why Sara Steiner of 'A'OLE PGV has taken the initiative to file the groundbreaking 2024 Geothermal injunction, presenting 40 years of evidence, deception, and cover-ups against the Israeli-owned Puna Geothermal Venture and the county of Hawaii. ( find all documents here --->https://wearepuna.wixsite.com/aloha-activism?fbclid=IwY2xjawH6bwZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHWrSlA217vgqXxWiGKuH-nkaq--PVbpyPyJoksP2GvVmoUqRhyaLfJadcg_aem_rw8VbgihAuD0DKWXrRZPKg )
Community members must engage with legal experts who specialize in Native Hawaiian rights. These professionals can offer valuable insights and strategies to counter projects threatening cultural integrity. Court decisions have long-lasting impacts, making informed advocacy crucial for ensuring that the voices of Kanaka ʻŌiwi are heard.
Harnessing the Power of Education
Education is crucial in the battle to protect Pelehonuamea and her lands. Programs focusing on Hawaiian culture and history empower community members and instill a sense of responsibility towards the environment among younger generations.
Schools and community organizations play critical roles in preserving Pele's stories, teaching youth about their ancestors, and fostering environmental stewardship. For instance, educational initiatives have increased cultural awareness among over 60% of youth in targeted programs, reinforcing the importance of their heritage. We need more of these in Kumukahi Puna.
These educational efforts also reach wider audiences, raising awareness about the fight for protection and garnering support from both visitors and non-Hawaiians. By sharing the stories of Pele and the struggle to safeguard her, advocates promote empathy and understanding around cultural sovereignty and ecological issues.
The Importance of Environmental Stewardship
The connection between spiritual beliefs and environmental stewardship is key in the fight for Pele's protection. Advocates emphasize the necessity of finding sustainable energy alternatives that honor the land and its people.
Drawing on traditional ecological knowledge, community members actively engage in methods that restore the land while upholding cultural values. This approach showcases the deep relationship between Kanaka ʻŌiwi and their environment, where natural cycles are respected and the sacred essence of the land is honored.
The battle to protect Pele intertwines with larger movements for environmental justice. Ongoing discussions about energy emphasize resistance and provide pathways for a broader dialogue on Hawai'i's energy future.
Mobilizing Support Through Social Media
In today's digital age, social media serves as a powerful platform for raising awareness and building support. Campaigns focused on the struggles of the Puna community and the protection of Pele have garnered increasing attention from around the globe.
Activists effectively use these platforms to share stories, monitor court proceedings, and organize events aimed at preserving cultural heritage. By building an extensive online network of support, they amplify their voices and foster valuable alliances.
Engaging followers on social media also strengthens community ties and attracts new supporters committed to environmental and cultural justice. By harnessing these tools, advocates can maintain momentum in their ongoing fight.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward
The Puna community's fight to protect Pelehonuamea involves both challenges and opportunities. The values associated with her and the rights of Kanaka ʻŌiwi represent a commitment to cultural preservation amid modern energy conflicts.
The ongoing legal battles, educational initiatives, and collaborative efforts highlight the deep-rooted desire to uphold both spiritual and environmental integrity. As change sweeps across the landscape, the voices of activists continue to advocate for a future where spirituality and nature coexist, ensuring that Pele remains a vital life force.
This journey calls for dedication and unity in a world that often prioritizes development over sacredness. Staying updated with local news sources who actually show the truth regarding the fracking of Kīlauea is essential for tracking ongoing court proceedings and community efforts. The spirit of Pele thrives through the commitment of those fighting to protect her legacy and the rights of her descendants.
Its time we rize.
mahalo for making it this far.
eye aloha you.
xo
Jazzy
KahuPuna
Aloha Activism
Past IMPORTANT articles . Please share them all over socials amd with neighbors. Mahalo .
https://wearepuna.wixsite.com/aloha-activism/post/the-legal-and-ethical-quandary-of-hawaii-s-geothermal-energy-exploring-the-violations-of-constituti
https://wearepuna.wixsite.com/aloha-activism/post/uncovering-the-impact-of-the-ahupua-a-system-on-hawaiian-ecosystem-revival-a-closer-look-at-kilauea
https://wearepuna.wixsite.com/aloha-activism/post/unveiling-the-myth-of-geothermal-propaganda-pele-s-cultural-significance-and-the-fight-for-truth-in
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