Corruption among elites is a deeply embedded systemic issue that often goes unnoticed and unaccounted for. In the aftermath of a devastating wildfire on Maui that left hundreds dead or missing, Hawaii state Rep. Diamond Garcia of Hawaii illuminated this corrupt behavior among real estate developers and corporate entities.
“Just days after the fire burnt down the entire town of Lahaina, realtors and developers were calling residents who lost their homes and offering to buy their property,” said Garcia. “So, people immediately caught on to what was going on and it looks like right when this happened, the developers came down like vultures and tried to take their property.”
It appears the elite establishment sought to exploit a tragic situation for their own financial gains. Democratic Gov. Josh Green of Hawaii declared a housing emergency in July, seeking to address a reported housing shortage in the state. The proclamation gave developers a way around regulations, such as waiving environmental and zoning regulations, making housing in the state among the least affordable in the country. This proclamation, meanwhile, perpetuated the greed of the elite few, allowing them to swoop in and capitalize on the desperate situations of the many affected by disaster.
“It’s been three weeks, Jesse, and there’s not been any clear answers,” Garcia continued. “I mean, these people lost everything. Their homes, families, loved ones and their children and they are crying for answers, they need an answer, and unfortunately, the response from the federal state and county governments has been pretty quiet.”
When asked about the death count for children, the response was, “I don’t know.” Could it be that the business interests of the few superseded the wellbeing of the many? Was the government complicit in allowing for the capitalization of a tragedy?
The fact of the matter is, many individuals and families lost everything. The physical destruction even more crippling in comparison to the remaining emotional toll. Far too often, those with money and influence do whatever it takes to make a profit, even if it means exploiting the misery of others.
This tragedy sheds light on a larger problem — one of systemic inequity and corruption in society. We need to create tangible reassurance ensuring that this never happens again. We need to put a stop to the elitist mentality that allows for the exploitation of other people’s sorrow and despair. Truly, we cannot allow this gross injustice to be swept under the rug. There must be regulation and accountability for those who exploit the devastation of others for personal gain.
I also don’t think it would hurt for the DOJ to investigate the origins of that fire. I don’t expect one, but here’s hoping.