At a recent Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee meeting, community engagement took center stage as Olivia Pascual, vice president of the Lanai Filipino Community Coalition, passionately advocated for Bill 41. This bill aims to preserve and promote the rich Filipino heritage on Lanai, where approximately 70% of the population identifies as Filipino.

Pascual, who is also the first homegrown family nurse practitioner on the island, expressed her commitment to serving the community and supporting local youth sports. She highlighted the importance of cultural heritage, noting that the Filipino community has significantly shaped the island's history and traditions. She referenced the contributions of Filipino ancestors, including those involved in labor strikes in the 1950s, emphasizing the need to educate future generations about this legacy.

The meeting underscored the vital role of community organizations in fostering cultural pride and continuity. Pascual's testimony resonated with many attendees, reflecting a shared commitment to celebrating and sharing Filipino culture. As the committee considers the bill, the community's support signals a collective effort to ensure that the rich traditions of Lanai's Filipino population are preserved for years to come.