The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) has placed Isaac Choy, one of its top executives, on leave while state agencies investigate allegations of a hostile work environment. Native Hawaiian leaders have called for his resignation, and elected officials are demanding accountability for his actions.
Choy faces accusations of making a racist remark and exhibiting a sexist attitude. In response, State Senator Kurt Fevella has called for a formal investigation by sending a letter to the Attorney General. The investigation is being conducted by the Department of the Attorney General and the Department of Human Resources.
Caroline Anderson, HTA’s Interim President and CEO, stated, “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. We remain committed to ensuring the well-being of our dedicated staff and maintaining a safe, respectful, and transparent workplace. HTA will continue to focus on uplifting Hawai‘i’s communities and supporting our visitor industry.”
Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, a Cultural Ambassador, praised the decision to place Choy on leave, calling it a positive step in addressing the concerns raised about his behavior. “Hawaii often showcases its smiling Aloha faces and promotes its culture in comfortable settings. But when it comes to respecting our people, culture, and ways, that’s where the true test lies. It shows who genuinely cares about us and who does not.”
Choy has since apologized for his remarks and denied holding chauvinistic views toward women.
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