There is a lot of talk from elected officials, organizations and individuals about mental health and substance abuse issues. Here is the real question, though: Is anyone actually looking for solutions or are they just spouting talking points?

If the legislators and elected officials in the state of Hawaiʻi were actually seeking solutions, what bills would they have passed? What appropriations would have been made? What issues would they champion?

Feeling productive and respected builds self-esteem. Being paid a living wage would go a long way to helping empower people who feel like they are falling through the cracks. Did we pass a living wage this year? Nope.

People are dying. Real people are really dying. Let’s vote for some real change in 2020, shall we?

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