Place of Refuge

Pre-European Hawaiian culture was ruled by a strict set of moral codes called "kapu (taboo)". Those who broke the codes - by, for example, treading on the shadow of a chief - could expect a summary execution for their transgression, unless they were swift and strong enough to escape to a place of refuge.

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau - the place of refuge at Honaunau - is surrounded on two sides by a high dry stone wall, and on the other by shark infested water.


Hawaii's ruling class were overthrown by the American and European "Committee of Safety" in 1893 and Hawaii became a territory of the United States in 1896, and a state in 1959.

Today the rights of Hawaiians suspected of criminal activities are protected by the American Constitution. In particular the Fifth Amendment states that "no person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury...." and the Eighth Amendment that no "cruel of unusual punishment [shall be] inflicted.



These rules of course do not apply to anyone labelled a "terrorist" by a Republican administration.

Land of the free indeed.

Amnesty International USA