June 14, 2020
Mr. David Black, owner, Black Press Ltd.
Mr. Dennis Francis, publisher, Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Dear Mr. Black and Mr. Francis,
As former governors, we know how much democracy depends on a free press.
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser provides the most comprehensive coverage of our
state. It knits our community together, giving us vital news on government,
business, health care, education, culture and life in our islands.
During this pandemic, information can be a lifeline. Your journalists have helped
our citizens navigate a fast-changing reality. They have tracked the spread of
COVID-19 and the explosion in unemployment claims. They have given voice to
people waiting in long lines for food as well as small businesses trying to stay
afloat. They have shared tips on how to cope and they have lifted our spirits with
stories of selfless caring and kokua.
So we were dismayed to hear that the newspaper’s management sent layoff
notices to roughly half of the newsroom staff represented by the Pacific Media
Workers Guild. Such a drastic reduction could doom the newspaper. The 31
journalists on the chopping block include photographers, the entire graphic arts
department and veteran journalists covering health care, homelessness and
investigative reporting, plus columnists such as Kokua Line.
Given the dramatic drop in advertising revenue, Star-Advertiser journalists are
ready to do their part to keep the newspaper solvent. Their hours have already
been cut 20%. They have offered to take extensive furloughs, which are far less
damaging and disruptive than layoffs and still meet the need for cost savings.
Please support them so that Honolulu’s only daily newspaper can weather this
economic crisis and come back strong. We cannot afford to lose it.
Sincerely,

Gov. Neil Abercrombie

Gov. Ben Cayetano

Gov. John Waihee