ACLU OF HAWAI‘I NAMES KIMBERLY MOA AS NEW COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

For Information:                                                                   
Ryan Leong, 808.392.7455
rleong@acluhawaii.org

ACLU OF HAWAI‘I NAMES KIMBERLY MOA AS NEW COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

HONOLULU: The ACLU of Hawai‘i is pleased to announce Kimberly Moa as its new Communications Director. This position is part of the ACLU’s effort to bolster the cause of civil rights in Hawai‘i by increasing its capacity and reach throughout the state.

Ms. Moa worked as a freelance photographer in Boston, New York and Hawai‘i for several years after attending Boston University College of Communication for a master’s program in photojournalism. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools, she also holds a bachelor’s degree in studio arts & psychology from the University of Puget Sound. Prior to joining the ACLU of Hawai‘i, she spent six years as the Communications Coordinator at Kuaʻaina Ulu ʻAuamo (KUA), a local nonprofit that works to empower grassroots community advocacy and environmental stewardship across Hawai‘i by supporting natural resource management networks working toward ʻāina momona—abundant, productive land and waters that support community well-being. When she isn’t volunteering at the loko iʻa (fishpond) or loʻi kalo (taro patch) in her neighborhood of Kalauao, Kim enjoys spending time with her partner and two kids.

On joining the ACLU of Hawai‘i team, Kim Moa said, “There is a great need right now for organizations and individuals to utilize their gifts in defense of our civil liberties as well as a longstanding need for social, wealth, and health equity here in Hawai’i. Growing up here and working with local grassroots communities, I’ve come to understand the nuances of cultural and social justice issues here in the islands and the impact of intersectionality and colonialism on issues of privilege that disproportionately affect Native Hawaiians and other marginalized folks across the paeʻāina (archipelago). I’m excited to put my experience to use at an organization that protects the rights of the most vulnerable and disenfranchised members of our community.”

ACLU of Hawai‘i Executive Director Joshua Wisch added, “Public education and communications is a critical part of the work we do. Sharing the vital stories of people with lived experience in our community whose rights are under threat, in an appropriate and compassionate way, as well as finding compelling ways to tell the stories that are hidden inside of hard data, is essential. Kim’s deep background in communications and storytelling, particularly with her experience working with local people on local issues, will bring new power to our work, and we’re excited to have her on board.” 

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The mission of the Hawai‘i affiliate of the ACLU is to protect the civil liberties contained in the state and federal constitutions through litigation, legislative and public education programs statewide. The ACLU is funded primarily through private donations and offers its services at no cost to the public. The ACLU does not accept any government funds