Eugene Takemoto Endorses Mufi Hannemann
Eugene Takemoto, the brother of the late Hawaii Congresswoman Patsy Mink has endorsed Democrat Mufi Hannemann’s candidacy for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District seat.
In announcing his endorsement, Takemoto stated, “My sister cared deeply for the people of Hawaii. She worked hard for all of us, and was passionate about education and healthcare. I see many of the same leadership qualities in Mufi Hannemann, who did a terrific job as Mayor. He has a record of accomplishment and has the strongest platform for growing our economy, defending Social Security and Medicare, and improving our schools.”
Takemoto continued, “Mufi has paid tribute to and continued Patsy’s Title IX legacy through sports with his wahine basketball programs. As Mayor, he had a record number of talented female cabinet members helping him run the city.”
Takemoto concluded, “Like my sister, Mufi Hannemann will represent us with courage and conviction. Our nation needs Mufi’s proven experience in Congress.”
Mink served in Congress for 24 years and represented the 2nd Congressional district from 1971 to 1977, and again from 1990-2002. Mink was the first woman of color and first Asian American woman elected to Congress. Mink is best known for authoring the Title IX Amendment of the Higher Education Act, which prohibits discrimination based on sex in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance, including admissions, financial aid, academic advising, housing, athletics, health services, counseling, classroom assignments, grading and discipline.
Immediately after taking the oath of office as Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, Mufi Hannemann appointed a record number of women to serve as department directors or deputy directors and as senior staff officials. During his tenure, women headed the Departments of Budget and Fiscal Services, Facilities Maintenance, Community Services, Corporation Counsel, Emergency Services, and Medical Examiner. In addition, women held leadership roles in the Neighborhood Commission Office and in the Mayor’s office.
Mufi Hannemann has long been a supporter of Title IX programs to promote Hawaii’s young women and advance the cause of gender equity. In 1994, Hannemann established his annual Basketball Jamboree, which serves as the only post-season showcase for female student-athletes from across the state. In 2006, he created the Team Aloha all-star basketball squad, which provides an opportunity for Hawaii’s top female high school standouts to demonstrate their talents to college coaches and scouts through mainland competitions. He has also been providing leadership scholarships and awards to outstanding young women for many years.
Said Hannemann, “I’m very honored and humbled to have the endorsement of Eugene Takemoto. Patsy Mink was a dedicated and outstanding public servant. If elected, I will work tirelessly like Patsy Mink by devoting all my energy, ideas, and resolve to the work before Congress to build a better future for the people of Hawaii.”
