The American Civil Liberties Union sent a letter to Hawaii law enforcement urging them to respect the constitutional rights of opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope who are expected to protest construction when it resumes next week.

The ACLU wrote that respecting demonstrators’ rights isn’t at odds with maintaining public safety and urged law enforcement to prioritize de-escalation and non-escalation. The ACLU also asked law enforcement to limit the use of force and communicate clearly with protesters.

The letter was sent to the state attorney general and Hawaii County police chief among others. Click here to read the full story.

The state plans to shut down Mauna Kea Access Road Monday at 7 a.m.

This reporter will be on Hawaii Island covering the protests. Feel free to email any tips or information to ahofschneider@civilbeat.org.