Standing Firm in a Shifting Culture

February 18, 2025

In recent days, I’ve received a few emails accusing me of attacking women simply because I oppose amending our state constitution to create a “right” to contraception and “reproductive freedom.” Let me be clear: I respect every individual, but I will never apologize for being pro-life. My position is not about taking away rights—it’s about protecting life, supporting families, and preserving parental responsibility.

But this debate is about more than just one issue. Across the board, we are seeing an effort to redefine fundamental truths—from the sanctity of life to the role of parents in raising their children. Whether it’s the push to enshrine abortion rights with no limits, the erosion of parental authority in education and healthcare decisions, the expansion of gambling, or the push for recreational marijuana, the underlying issue remains the same: Who gets to shape the future of our children and our communities?

We are told that Hawaii must change its constitution to protect rights that are not even under threat, yet we ignore the real dangers facing our families—rising drug use, addiction, broken homes, and policies that strip away the values that have long strengthened our communities. Legalized gambling, for example, is often promoted as a quick economic fix, but at what cost? Do we really want to invite an industry that has devastated families in other states? Similarly, recreational marijuana is being framed as harmless, yet we know its long-term effects on youth development and mental health.

I reject the idea that standing for life, family, and faith is an act of hate. In fact, it is out of deep love and conviction that we speak up.

We can disagree on policies, but we should all be asking: What kind of future do we want for Hawaii’s families? If we truly care about freedom, dignity, and the well-being of future generations, then we cannot remain silent while these foundational values are undermined.

I will continue to stand firm—not in anger, but in truth, grace, and the spirit of aloha. This commitment began in 1994, and after three decades of standing for life and family, I am still here—and I am not going anywhere.

With Aloha,

Eva Andrade
President/CEO
Hawaii Family Forum