The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has placed one of its top executives, Isaac Choy, on leave as state agencies conduct an investigation into reports of a hostile workplace environment. Native Hawaiian leaders have called for Choy’s resignation, while elected officials have demanded accountability for his alleged behavior.
Choy has been accused of making a racist comment and displaying a sexist attitude. In response, State Senator Kurt Fevella reportedly sent a letter to the Attorney General calling for a formal investigation. The inquiries are currently being led by the Department of the Attorney General and the Department of Human Resources.
“Isaac Choy has been placed on leave at the direction of the Department of the Attorney General and the Department of Human Resources Development pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation,” said Caroline Anderson, HTA’s Interim President and CEO. “We remain committed to ensuring the well-being of our dedicated staff and maintaining a safe, respectful, and transparent workplace. HTA will stay focused on our important work of uplifting Hawai‘i’s communities and supporting our visitor industry”.
Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Cultural Ambassador told Island News, "The decision to place Mr. Isaac Choy on leave is a positive step forward addressing the concerns, and allegations made against Mr. Choy, regarding his remarks and matter of conduct, in his workplace and towards those of us who serve Hawaiian interests.”
"Hawaii is okay to put forward our smiling Aloha faces and put culture forward when it's nice and comfortable, but when it comes to taking care of the people, having respect for us... our culture, our ways and who we are, that is where the rubber meets the road. And we see who has actual genuine aloha for us and who does not."
Choy has reportedly issued an apology and stated that he does not hold chauvinistic views toward women.
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