Hawaii is known for its ethnic, cultural and religious diversity, which distinguishes us among the 50 states. We take pride in seeing our community as a beacon of justice and fairness reflected in our policies, especially in regard to health care. In 1974,we were the first state to establish mandatory employer-based health care coverage with the Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act.

Born and raised in Wahiawa, Poni Askew has always been passionate about agricultural systems in Hawaii.