Apnewsbreak human rights petition sent for hawaii fishermen

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AP News Break: Human Rights Petition Sent for Hawaii Fishermen

HONOLULU (AP) — A petition calling for improved working conditions and human rights for Hawaii's commercial fishermen has been sent to the state's governor and lawmakers.

The petition, organized by the Hawaii Fishermen's Alliance for Conservation and Sustainability (HFACS), highlights concerns about the treatment of fishermen, including long hours, low wages, and a lack of access to basic necessities like healthcare and social services.

"We're not asking for special treatment, just basic human rights," said HFACS Executive Director, Kimo Lyman. "Fishermen are the backbone of our state's economy, but they're often treated like second-class citizens."

The petition, which has garnered over 1,000 signatures, also calls for increased regulation of the fishing industry to ensure that fishermen are protected from exploitation and abuse.

HFACS is also pushing for legislation that would establish a state-funded program to provide healthcare and other benefits to fishermen and their families.

"We believe that every fisherman deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes access to basic healthcare and social services," said Lyman.

The petition comes as the fishing industry in Hawaii faces increased scrutiny over concerns about the treatment of fishermen and the impact of commercial fishing on the state's marine ecosystem.

In recent years, there have been reports of fishermen being subjected to poor working conditions, including long hours, low wages, and a lack of access to basic necessities like healthcare and social services.

The petition is the latest effort by HFACS to raise awareness about the issues facing Hawaii's commercial fishermen and to push for reforms to improve their working conditions and human rights.

"We're not going to stop until we see real change," said Lyman. "Fishermen deserve better, and we're going to keep fighting until they get it."