69
ASSOCIATED PRESS / 2017
Bruno Mars performs “Perm” at the BET Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Bruno Mars is the latest celebrity today to voice his support for the TMT opponents on social media.
“Aquaman” actor Jason Momoa. “Jumanji” star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Musician Jack Johnson.
What do these three celebrities with Hawaii ties have in common? They recently shared their support for Thirty Meter Telescope opponents on social media.
Bruno Mars is the latest celebrity to voice his support for the TMT opponents on Instagram.
“I love you Hawaii, and I’m with you. #protectmaunakea,” wrote Bruno Mars, who Instagrammed Wednesday a photo of kupuna (elders) blocking construction of the $1.4 billion project on Hawaii’s tallest mountain. The post received over 351,000 likes by 9:36 a.m. Thursday.
Last week, Dwayne Johnson surprised TMT opponents when he made a surprise visit to Mauna Kea. The former professional wrestler did not announce his visit on his social media accounts. However, he later posted to Instagram shortly after his visit.
Since July 14, Momoa has been posting multiple photos, videos and articles about Mauna Kea. The Hollywood Reporter ranked Momoa as the No. 1 top actor with TMT opposition posts.
Momoa Wednesday visited TMT opponents at the base of Mauna Kea, where he was greeted by a crowd of about 600.
There’s no word yet on whether Mars will make an appearance on Mauna Kea with Hurricane Erick and Tropical Storm Flossie approaching Hawaii island.
Just a few days ago, Academy Award-winning actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio regrammed an illustration by Ashley Lukashevsky to his 33 million Instagram followers.
Gov. David Ige on Tuesday called off the emergency order for Mauna Kea due to the approaching storms and extended the TMT construction deadline to start for two years — until Sept. 26, 2021.
“The intention would be to keep law enforcement there just in order to keep people safe,” Ige said during a news conference at his Capitol office in Honolulu. “But obviously, we are monitoring the approach of the storm and will be taking appropriate action.”
TMT opponents celebrated the move as a victory. However, the activists blocking construction of telescope said they are prepared to evacuate on Mauna Kea Access Road if the weather turns perilous.
By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.
Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.