In memory of Colleen Hanabusa

March 6, 2026

Sisters and Brothers,

We lost a great leader in Hawaii today, former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, who passed away at the age of 74. She represented the people on the Waiʻanae Coast on the west coast of Oahu; a place she called home. She served in the Hawaii State Senate and was also the first female to be elected by her peers to Senate President. She has always been an advocate for Unions, Labor, and working families. She has helped IBEW Local 1186 in many ways throughout her career in politics and became a great friend to confide in. I was fortunate to serve with her on the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART) as her Vice-Chair, where I got to see examples firsthand of her leadership skills and most surprisingly, her knowledge of electrical systems.
Colleen Hanabusa will surely be missed by the people of Hawaii and by Labor Union Communities. She is survived by her husband John Souza.

Rest in Peace my friend.

Damien T.K. Kim

Business Manager/Financial Secretary