The City Council of Honolulu convened on June 7, 2025, for a full council meeting that began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Nishimoto. Following this, Nishimoto introduced Bishop Ren Soodu of Shingon Shoo, Hawaii, who delivered a heartfelt message of aloha.

Bishop Soodu emphasized the significance of diversity and inclusiveness, particularly in light of the commencement of Gay Pride Month in June. He highlighted that Pride is a celebration of resilience, remembrance, and love, deeply rooted in Hawaii's heritage. The Bishop noted that the spirit of aloha is reflected in the community's embrace of diversity, which is evident in the various languages and backgrounds represented within the council.

He urged the council and community members to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their identity, feel included and empowered. Bishop Soodu called for action to protect marginalized youth and to foster an environment where all voices are heard and valued. He concluded his message by affirming the importance of love and community, encouraging everyone to be proud of their identities not just during Pride Month, but every day.

Following the Bishop's address, the council moved on to procedural announcements, setting the stage for the discussions and decisions that would follow in the meeting. The overall tone of the meeting reflected a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, underscoring the values of aloha that are central to Honolulu's identity.