IMAGINE PACIFIC SUPPORTS: IHP INCLUSION FOR COFA RESIDENTS IN MAUI

IMAGINE PACIFIC SUPPORTS

Ref 3/12/23 Letter from Senator Hirono 

Imagine Pacific Supports recent initiative urging FEMA to include Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens in wildfire aid programs, as outlined in the letter from Sen. Hirono dated 3/12/24, is an example of exceptional Global Leadership. Sen. Mazie Hirono's advocacy for the provision of COFA citizens to access FEMA programs that were impacted by this tragedy, like the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), is not only crucial for recovery after the devastating Maui wildfires, but it provides an example to the Pacific community they the U.S. leads by example illustrating care and compassion for vulnerable communities. Many COFA citizens have served in the U.S. military and contributed to Hawaii's service industry yet disconnected from federal assistance. Extending aid to COFA citizens impacted by wildfires is a step towards fairness and equitable treatment in times of crisis. It's progress toward rectifying past injustices and ensuring Hawaii’s at-risk residents receive the support they need.

 

 

 

🌐IMSPARK: Imagine... A Pacific empowered by international collaborations 🌐

 

🌐Imagine... A Pacific empowered by international collaborations 🌐

Imagined Endstate:

🤝Imagine... A Pacific where collaborative international partnerships empower peace, security, and autonomy for all nations. A region that embraces its cultural heritage, addresses climate change, and prepares resiliently for natural disasters. 🏝️

Link:

🔗 [https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2967/text]

Source:

117th Congress 1st Session. (2021, May 4). H.R.2967 - Boosting Long-term U.S. Engagement in the Pacific Act. 📚

💥What's the Big Deal:

The 117th Congress introduces H.R. 2967, the 'Boosting Long-term U.S. Engagement in the Pacific Act,' outlining a comprehensive United States policy for the Pacific Islands. Emphasizing peace, security, and prosperity while respecting sovereignty, the Act addresses climate change, enhances trade, supports education and healthcare, and fosters democratic governance. 🏝️ It reaffirms the US commitment to extending and renewing Compacts of Free Association with partner nations and collaborating with regional allies to pursue common goals.

#BluePacificAct, 

#Climate,

#PacificRegion,

#COFA,

#Collaboration

💥IMEA COFA SUPPORT NOW! - (VIDEO)💥

🌍 IMEA: Imagine Pacific Envisioned Analysis | To Pay the Price: The Case for Investing in the Future of COFA Now! 💼

In this video episode of Imagine Pacific Envisioned Analysis (IMEA), we explore the pressing challenges faced by the Compact of Free Association (COFA) Nations and advocate for transformative investments in their future. 🏝️ 🤝 Join us as we envision a brighter future for the Pacific region through cultivating sustainable partnerships with entities like the Hawaii National Guard, State of Hawaii Department of Health, DOD, University of Hawaii, and the VA. 🌐 💡 IMAGINE a future where Micronesians have access to essential healthcare services and a supportive system that recognizes and maximizes their community assets. By fostering strategic engagements, research, and community-based initiatives, we aim to empower the COFA region to thrive and build resiliency. 🌱 💥 Learn about the critical case for investing in the COFA nations, facing an existential climate crisis, economic disparities, and challenges in providing healthcare to Micronesian veterans. Despite their rich heritage, they rank among the world's poorest nations. 🏞️ 🔍 EXPLORE the challenges faced by Micronesian veterans in accessing healthcare, the impacts of climate change on vulnerable island states, and the urgent need to address health disparities in Hawaii. 🏥 📚 FURTHER RESEARCH is essential in advancing economic cooperation, leveraging the State Partnership Program, addressing healthcare disparities, and engaging in climate-focused field research. 📝 🌏 DISCOVER the potential impact of strategic partnerships, including Pacific region stability, climate change adaptation, infrastructural development, and the reduction of healthcare disparities. 🌊 📊 Participate in our QR Reader Survey to share your insights on the challenges faced by Micronesian veterans and help us work towards viable solutions. 📲 📢 Join us in advocating for justice and equal access to healthcare for Micronesian veterans by leaving comments, writing letters, and raising awareness about this critical issue. 📝 🎬 Watch this thought-provoking IMEA episode and support a thriving COFA future, accessible resources, and a model of sustainability for the world. Don't forget to like and subscribe! 🎥

🌏IMSPARK: Imagine…. Region free of Waster from Chemical Weapons 🌏

 

🌏IMSPARK: Imagine…. Region free of Waster from Chemical Weapons 🌏

Imagined Endstate:

🕊️Imagine a future where the legacy of nuclear testing and the remnants of chemical weapons are fully addressed, bringing healing and hope to the people of the COFA (Compact of Free Association) nations.

Link:

🔗 https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2023-07-07/us-set-to-destroy-its-last-chemical-weapons-closing-a-deadly-chapter-dating-to-world-war-i

Source:

Demillo, A., Peipert, T., & Lovan, D. (2023, July 6). U.S. destroys last of its declared chemical weapons, closing a deadly chapter dating to World War I. U.S. News. 📚

💥What's the Big Deal:

The recent destruction of the United States declared chemical weapons stockpile represents a major milestone in global disarmament efforts and holds profound implications for regions, like the COFA nations, impacted by nuclear testing. 🌏 This significant step towards disarmament signifies a commitment to acknowledging the consequences of past actions and addressing the harm caused. It offers a glimmer of hope for the affected communities, fostering a path to healing and restoration. 🌿The U.S. sets a precedent for other countries to follow suit in dismantling weapons of mass destruction, promoting a safer and more peaceful world. This historic achievement begins with the journey towards justice and reconciliation for the COFA nations and other impacted areas. 🌟

#SocialJustice,#COFA,#PacificIslands,#Oceania,

#Public Health,#Sustainability,

IMEA - COFA VETS - REEL 2

IMEA: To Pay the Price: The Case for Investing in the Future of COFA Now!

 IMEA: To Pay the Price: The Case for Investing in the Future of COFA Now!

💭 I. Imagine...

Cultivating new and vibrant sustainment partnerships via stakeholder collaborations in the Compact of Free Association (COFA) Nations with entities such as the Hawaii National Guard, the State of Hawaii Department of Health, DOD, the University of Hawaii, and the VA 🌍

II. Imagined Endstate:

Imagine a future where Micronesians have access to essential healthcare services and a supportive system that recognizes and maximizes their organic community assets. Through strategic engagements, research, and developing community-based assets collaborative partnerships and engagements could empower the region to further its resiliency and thrive.

III.💥 What's the Case:

The COFA nations are facing a convergence of critical challenges, and an international transformative and all-encompassing approach to investing in their future becomes imperative. These nations find themselves at the crossroads of an existential climate crisis, grappling with extreme vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Despite their rich cultural heritage and resilience, they rank among the poorest per capita nations in the world, confronting economic disparities that hinder their growth and development. Furthermore, the geographic separation from the United States has left many Micronesian veterans unseen, and deprived of the care they are entitled to as US veterans. Finally, there is a historical indebtedness by the countries who conducted atomic testing for over a decade, they hold some accountability for the aftermath effect on the region's vulnerable population.

🔎 IV. Consider This:

⏳ Challenges Faced by Micronesian Veterans: Micronesian veterans encounter numerous obstacles in accessing healthcare despite their dedicated service. The limited capacity in U.S. military hospitals in Hawaii often leaves many veterans without the medical attention they deserve. Additionally, the high cost of healthcare and complexities surrounding health insurance further hinder their access to essential medications and treatments, adding to the burden they bear after serving their nation. (Blair, 2017)

🌊 Impacts of Climate Change: The adverse impacts of climate change pose significant threats to vulnerable island states like the COFA nations. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and environmental degradation are some of the challenges these nations face, putting their very existence at risk. (Rasmussen, 2022)

⏰ Health Disparities in Hawaii: A study by the East-West Center showed that Micronesians had significantly worse Severity of Illness (SOI) for various health-related hospitalizations, emphasizing the need for support to address disparities (Hagiwara, 2016)

📈 U.S. Commission on Civil Rights reported more than $1 billion in costs associated with providing service to Micronesians for Hawaii and adjoining Pacific U.S. Territories (Rights, 2019)

💪 SPP's Role in Theater Security: The State Partnership Program (SPP) plays a crucial role in bolstering theater security and stability in the Pacific region. The SPP's efforts in building partnerships can serve as a strategic counterbalance to their growing influence and help ensure the long-term stability and development of the COFA nations (Rimando, 2023).

📚 V. Research This:

1. Garamone, J. (2023). Economic Cooperation and the State Partnership Program.
2. Blair, C. (March 1, 2017). Lawmakers Urge Medical Help For Micronesian Veterans. Civil Beat.
3. Brewington, L., Kokame, K., & Lewis, N. (2021). Global Health Engagement in the Pacific Region.
4. Hagiwara, M. K. (2016). Healthcare Disparities Among Micronesian Veterans.
5. United States Commission on Civil Rights. (2019).
6. Rasmussen, E., Nakano, G., Kabua, S., & Hatoum, A. (2022). Climate-Focused Field Research within the Kwajalein Atoll Sustainability Laboratory.
7. IMSPARK: Communities Combat Climate Crisis, July 25, 2023, Imagine Pacific Pulse
8. IMEA: Imagine Pacific Envision Analysis - Healthcare for Micronesian Veterans, June 30, 2023, Imagine Pacific Pulse
9. IMSPARK: Imagine Equal Care for COFA, June 26, 2023, Imagine Pacific Pulse
10. IMOA: SPP and COFA, Match Made in the Pacific, July 24, 2023, Rimando, M., Imagine Pacific Pulse

🌍 VI. Impact on Pacific:

Here are the following impacts partnerships and engagements could provide if pursued:

1. Pacific Region Stability: As near-peer competitor nations expand their influence in the Pacific, it becomes increasingly vital for the United States to strategically prioritize its engagement with COFA countries. The SPP's proactive efforts in building and strengthening partnerships can serve as an essential counterbalance, preserving the sovereignty and security of the region. By fostering enduring relationships, the SPP facilitates an environment where COFA nations can confidently navigate diplomatic complexities and maintain their independence in a changing geopolitical landscape.
2. Climate Change Adaptation: Vulnerable island states, such as the COFA nations, face unprecedented challenges from the adverse impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and environmental degradation pose significant threats to their very existence. Organizations like the Kwajalein Atoll Sustainment Laboratory (KASL) and the University of Hawaii could foster focus on environmental protection and sustainability, serving as a valuable resource, and facilitating knowledge sharing and technical assistance.
3. Infrastructural Development: The COFA nations' economic vulnerability necessitates international support and cooperation for sustainable development. Through a program like the SPP, the National Guard could offer expertise and resources in critical areas such as disaster response, healthcare, education, and organizational capacity building. In leveraging the resources and experiences of both the National Guard and partner organizations like the Department of Health, and Emergency Management Agency, strategic partnerships become vehicles to unlock potential, facilitate growth, reduce dependence, and foster sustainable progress in the Pacific.
4. Reduce Healthcare Disparities: Global health engagements hold promise for addressing healthcare disparities in the COFA nations. By tapping into the National Guard's and University of Hawaii's expertise in both the medical logistical and telehealth, through medical engagements they could contribute to enhancing Micronesia's preparedness and response mechanisms. Specifically, efforts to mitigate the Severity of Illness (SOI) for various health-related hospitalizations in Micronesia through the SPP can lead to a more equitable and robust healthcare system.

📊 VII. QR Reader Survey: 

To better understand the challenges faced by Micronesian veterans and work towards viable solutions, we invite readers to participate in our QR Reader Survey. Your valuable insights and experiences will help us better understand the issues at hand. Please note that participation in the survey is voluntary and for the purpose of gaining a general assessment of the reader's impression of the IMEA. It is not intended for scientific purposes.

 📢 VII. Call to Action: 

Imagine Pacific is in support of the COFA Veterans and asks that readers who feel the same consider joining us in advocating for justice and equal access to healthcare for Micronesian veterans. You can support this cause by: 

• Leaving a comment on the Imagine Pacific Pulse(www.imagine-pacific.blogspot.com) 

• Sending a letter to the Editor: https://www.staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter/ 

• Reaching out to your local representatives and urging them to support legislation 

• Raising awareness about this issue within your social circles and utilizing the provided QR codes to share this IMEA.

🤝 VIII. Conclusion: 

Investing in the future of COFA nations requires transformative efforts encompassing equitable healthcare access, economic development, climate change resilience, and recognition of historical consequences. Partnerships contribute to Pacific stability amid geopolitical competition, empowering COFA nations to preserve sovereignty. Addressing healthcare disparities, climate change adaptation, and infrastructural development are vital. Collaborative efforts unlock potential, ensuring the well-being of COFA communities and fostering resilience. Let's work towards a thriving COFA future, accessible resources, and a model of sustainability for the world.

IMOA: SPP and COFA, Match Made in the Pacific

(IMOA) Imagine Pacific Original Article 

SPP and COFA, Match Made in the Pacific

By Lt. Col. Marlon Rimando, MD

Hawaii Air National Guard

Imagine Pacific Pulse    7/24/2023

In recognition of its 30th anniversary, it’s fitting that the United States Department of Defense's State Partnership Program (SPP) is poised more than ever to conduct capacity-building and empowering engagements in the Pacific (United States Department of Defense, n.d.)[1]. One such area where this could occur is between the National Guard and the Compact of Free Association (COFA) nations, including the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. In fostering relationships and promoting security cooperation, the SPP can play a pivotal role in addressing the unique challenges faced by these Pacific island nations.

One of the primary interests in the region is the increasing influence of near-peer competitor nations (Asian Bureau of Research, 2017)[2]. As they expand their economic and diplomatic ties with the COFA nations, it becomes essential for the United States to prioritize its engagement with these countries. The SPP's efforts in building partnerships can serve as a strategic counterbalance to their growing influence and help ensure the long-term stability and development of the COFA nations.

Climate change is another pressing issue that profoundly affects the COFA nations. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and environmental degradation pose significant threats to these vulnerable island states (Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, 2022)[3]. The SPP's focus on environmental protection and sustainability can facilitate knowledge sharing and technical assistance in climate resilience and resource management, empowering the COFA nations to tackle climate-related challenges more effectively.

Moreover, the COFA nations' economic status could benefit from international support and cooperation. Through the SPP, U.S. states can provide expertise and resources in areas such as disaster response, healthcare, education, and economic development (Garamone, 2023)[4]. Working together by utilizing apparatus such as the SPP program, the COFA nations can access critical support to address their economic vulnerabilities and foster stronger, more resilient communities.

Furthermore, the SPP's emphasis on global health engagement offers significant potential for the COFA nations. The National Guard's experience in responding to public health emergencies can be leveraged to help Micronesia prepare for and respond to health crises, enhancing its capacity to address health challenges effectively (Brewington, Kokame, & Lewis, 2021)[5]. A study by the East-West Center showed that Micronesians had significantly worse Severity of Illness (SOI) for various health-related hospitalizations, emphasizing the need for support to address disparities (Hagiwara, 2016)[6]. Here is a perfect example where a program like the SPP could and should make a difference.

In conclusion, the State Partnership Program holds immense promise as a platform for building resilience in the COFA nations and promoting lasting relationships between U.S. states and these Pacific allies. Coincidently, the benefit is mutual with development capacity in COFA nations and preventative measures in the United States, as the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights reported more than $1 billion in costs associated with providing service to Micronesians for Hawaii and adjoining Pacific U.S. Territories (Rights, 2019)[7]. As the region faces growing geopolitical competition and climate change impacts, the SPP's role in fostering enduring partnerships takes on even greater significance. Strengthening ties and promoting shared goals, the SPP can contribute to a more comprehensive and coordinated U.S. approach in the Pacific, ensuring long-term sustainability and development in the region.

Lt Col Rimando is a graduate of the USAF Air War College and served on numerous State Partnership Program and Global Health Engagements with PACAF, the Hawaii Air National Guard, and the Hawaii National Guard. He is a Flight Surgeon, currently serving as the HING Task Force CBRNE Surgeon for the CERFP. He also works as a MEB Physician with Tripler Army Medical Center.

---

[1] United States Department of Defense. (n.d.). State Partnership Program.

[2]  National Bureau of Asian Research. (2017). China's Belt and Road Initiative in the Pacific Islands: Assessment of key economic issues and priorities.

[3] Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat. (2020). Communiqué of the 51st Pacific Islands Forum.

[4] Garamone, J. (July 19, 2023). Milley Touts Successes of Guard's State Partnership Program. DOD News.

[5] Brewington, L., Kokame, K., & Lewis, N. (2021). A Changing Climate and Its Implications for Health and Migration in the Pacific: Examples from the Marshall Islands. East-West Center.

[6] Hagiwara, M. K. (2016). Health disparities among Micronesians in Hawaii. Hawaii Journal of Medicine & Public Health, 75(11), 325-329.

[7] United States Commission on Civil Rights. (2019). Separate and Unequal: Federal Protections and Enforcement in the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.

 

📚IMSPARK: Introducing IMOA - Imagine Pacific Original Article 📚

 

📚IMSPARK: Introducing IMOA - Imagine Pacific Original Article 📚

💡Imagined Endstate:

Imagine a platform for published content creation. Welcome to IMOA, where creativity meets authenticity in the Pacific's vibrant creative community! IMOA, is a new product for the Imagine Pacific Pulse, offers a venue to publish original narratives. 🌱 From thought-provoking real-world issues to captivating fictional tales, IMOA is an open platform for authors eager to share their unique perspectives.

💼 Standards of Conduct:

With a commitment to upholding standards, IMOA ensures every article is free from plagiarism, exploitation, or threatening language. Each piece undergoes a thorough review by Imagine Pacific, ensuring excellence and professionalism.

💥What's the Big Deal:

📚 IMOA - Imagine Pacific Original Article provides an avenue to celebrate creativity and authenticity in the Pacific. This unique collection of narratives opens the doors to diverse topics and genuine storytelling. Different from our IMEA (Imagine Pacific Envisioned Analysis), IMOA welcomes a wide range of content, from thought-provoking real-world issues to captivating fictional tales.

🌊IMOA creates an inclusive platform for authors to share their unique perspectives, contributing to a rich tapestry of narratives that reflect the essence of the Pacific. Through IMOA, readers can immerse themselves in engaging and authentic narratives, showcasing the power of imagination.

💪 This initiative fosters a community of talented authors and genuine storytelling enthusiasts, celebrating Pacific cultures, traditions, and experiences.

In the spirit of the ingenuity of Pacific Islanders, IMOA attempts to further Imagine Pacific's commitment to nurturing a vibrant Pacific Island community where authentic voices thrive, contributing to the literary landscape. 📚

Welcome to Imagine Pacific Enterprises! (Video)

Discover a realm of endless possibilities with the help of Imagine Pacific Consulting, the daily blog called Imagine Pacific Pulse (IMPULSE), and the Imagine Pacific Youtube Channel. We believe in the power of creativity as the currency of change, providing tailored services to support your goals. Uncover pressing issues, form well-rounded perspectives, and join us in creating a future of positive change. Explore more at imagine-pacific.com

IMEA: Imagine Pacific Envision Analysis - Healthcare for Micronesian Veterans

 

🌟 Honoring Sacrifices: Ensuring Equitable Healthcare for Micronesian Veterans

💭 I. Imagine... Honoring Sacrifices: Ensuring Equitable Healthcare for Micronesian Veterans

🌍 II. Imagined End State Imagine a future where Micronesian veterans receive equal access to essential healthcare services, with a healthcare system that recognizes and respects their sacrifices. Unfortunately, the current reality for these veterans is fraught with challenges, including limited access to U.S. military hospitals in Hawaii and barriers to obtaining necessary medications and treatments. In addition, Micronesia as a nation faces a multitude of security, resilience, and health concerns, exacerbated by the increasing presence of diplomatic competition in the region.

🔎 III. Consider This: 💡 Challenges Faced by Micronesian Veterans: Micronesian veterans encounter numerous obstacles in accessing healthcare despite their dedicated service. Limited capacity in U.S. military hospitals in Hawaii often leaves many veterans without the necessary medical attention. Additionally, the high cost of healthcare and complexities surrounding health insurance further hinder their access to essential medications and treatments.

💪 Efforts Towards Equitable Healthcare: Recognizing the urgency of the situation, bipartisan efforts are underway in Congress to address the disparities faced by Micronesian veterans. Lawmakers are advocating for legislation that would extend the services of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans living abroad.

📚 IV. Research This:

1.      Micronesian veterans struggle to get care. (May 28, 2023). The New York Times.

2.      Blair, C. (March 1, 2017). Lawmakers Urge Medical Help For Micronesian Veterans. Civil Beat.

🌍 V. Impact on Pacific: Achieving equal access to healthcare for Micronesian veterans in the Pacific region is crucial for social justice, honoring their sacrifices, promoting equitable healthcare for all veterans, and contributing to the overall well-being of the region. It is an opportunity to rectify inequalities, set a precedent for fair treatment, and ensure the well-being of an essential ally by addressing:

1.      Social Justice: The current disparities in healthcare access for Micronesian veterans create an unjust situation. By rectifying these inequalities and ensuring equal access to healthcare, we contribute to social justice. It is essential to recognize and address the injustices faced by these veterans and their communities, who have made sacrifices in service to the United States.

2.      Honoring Sacrifices: Micronesian veterans have selflessly served as foreign citizens in the U.S. military. They have made significant sacrifices for the well-being and security of their nation. By providing equitable healthcare, we honor their sacrifices and acknowledge the debt of gratitude owed to them.

3.      Setting a Precedent: Achieving equitable healthcare for Micronesian veterans sets a precedent for fair treatment of all veterans. It establishes a framework that promotes equal access to healthcare services based on the principle of merit and the sacrifices made in service to the United States.

4.      Regional Well-being: The Pacific region faces numerous challenges, including theater security, climate resilience, and public health concerns. The increasing influence of regional near-peer competitors adds complexity to these challenges. Ensuring equitable healthcare for Micronesian veterans contributes to the overall well-being of the Pacific region.

📊 VI. QR Reader Survey: To better understand the challenges faced by Micronesian veterans and work towards viable solutions, we invite readers to participate in our QR Reader Survey. Your valuable insights and experiences will help us gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.

Please note that participation in the survey is voluntary and for the purpose of gaining a general assessment of the issue. It is not intended for scientific purposes. We kindly request participants to avoid providing any identifying information to ensure anonymity and confidentiality.

📢 VII. Call to Action: Imagine Pacific is in support of the COFA Veterans and asks that readers who feel the same consider joining us in advocating for justice and equal access to healthcare for Micronesian veterans. You can support this cause by:

• Leaving a comment on the Imagine Pacific Pule (www.imagine-pacific.blogspot.com)

• Sending a letter to the Editor: https://www.staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter/

• Reaching out to your local representatives and urging them to support legislation

• Raising awareness about this issue within your social circles and utilizing the provided QR codes to share this IMEA.

🤝 Conclusion: Micronesian veterans' sacrifices should never be forgotten, and their well-being should always be a top priority. By ensuring equitable healthcare for Micronesian veterans, we foster social justice and set the stage for fair treatment of all veterans, regardless of their nationality or citizenship.

Key Words:

#HealthEquity

#COFA

#Veterans

#Micronesian

#IMEA