Trailblazing Hawaii Senator Colleen Hanabusa Passes Away at 74
Colleen Hanabusa, the first woman to serve as President of the Hawaii State Senate, has died after a 5-month cancer battle. She was a pioneering political leader in the state.
Colleen Hanabusa, a former US Representative who made history as the first woman to serve as President of the Hawaii State Senate, has passed away at the age of 74. Hanabusa died early on Friday morning after a five-month battle with cancer, according to her friend and former Chief of Staff, Mike Formby.
Hanabusa's political career was marked by her trailblazing achievements and unwavering commitment to her home state of Hawaii. As the first woman to hold the influential position of Senate President, she shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future female leaders in Hawaii's government.
{{IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER}}A native of Hawaiʻi, Hanabusa first entered public service in 1998 when she was elected to the state Senate, where she served for over a decade. During her time in the Senate, she quickly rose through the ranks, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. In 2010, she was elected to the US House of Representatives, becoming one of the few women of color to serve in Congress from Hawaii.
Throughout her career, Hanabusa was known for her sharp intellect, strong leadership skills, and deep understanding of the issues facing her constituents. She was a passionate advocate for Hawaii's environment, economy, and social welfare, working tirelessly to improve the lives of the people she served.
{{IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER}}In a statement, Mike Formby praised Hanabusa's legacy, saying, "Colleen was a true trailblazer who dedicated her life to public service and making a positive difference in the lives of Hawaiians. Her passing is a profound loss for our state, but her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come."
Hanabusa's death marks the end of an era in Hawaii politics, but her legacy as a pioneering leader and champion for her community will endure. Her passing is a somber reminder of the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who dare to break down barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
{{IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER}}Source: The Guardian
