Does Tourism Hurt Native Hawaiians?

By Anna Duncan

Tourism is often seen as a double-edged sword, with its pros and cons. While it brings in revenue and creates job opportunities, it can also have negative effects on the local community.

In the case of Hawaii, a popular tourist destination, there are concerns that tourism might be hurting the native Hawaiians. Let’s take a closer look at this issue.

Background Information

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture. It has been a popular tourist destination for decades, attracting millions of visitors each year. The state heavily relies on tourism to support its economy, with over 200,000 jobs directly tied to the industry.

However, Hawaii’s history is not entirely rosy. The annexation of Hawaii by the United States in 1898 and subsequent statehood in 1959 brought about significant changes to the islands’ social and political landscape. Native Hawaiians were marginalized and forced to assimilate into Western culture.

The Impact of Tourism on Native Hawaiians

The influx of tourists has put additional pressure on the already fragile ecosystem of Hawaii. The construction of new hotels and resorts has caused damage to natural habitats and disrupted traditional fishing grounds.

Tourism has also contributed to the commodification of Hawaiian culture. Many tourists come to Hawaii seeking an “exotic” experience and end up participating in activities that are disrespectful or offensive to native Hawaiians.

Moreover, tourism has driven up the cost of living in Hawaii, making it difficult for many native Hawaiians to afford basic necessities like housing and healthcare.

Addressing the Issue

It’s clear that tourism has had a significant impact on native Hawaiians. However, there are efforts being made to mitigate these effects.

One such effort is ecotourism – a form of sustainable tourism that aims to minimize environmental impact while supporting local communities. Ecotourism in Hawaii involves activities like hiking, bird watching, and cultural tours that promote conservation and respect for Hawaiian culture.

Another approach is to involve native Hawaiians in the tourism industry. By owning and operating their businesses, they can have more control over how their culture is presented to tourists. This can also create job opportunities for native Hawaiians and help boost the local economy.

Conclusion

Tourism is a complex issue that often has both positive and negative effects. In the case of Hawaii, it’s clear that tourism has had a significant impact on native Hawaiians. However, there are ways to address these issues and ensure that tourism benefits everyone involved.

By promoting sustainable tourism practices and involving native Hawaiians in the industry, we can create a more equitable and respectful tourism industry in Hawaii. It’s important to remember that tourism should not come at the expense of local communities or the environment.