This video is part one in a series of three documenting the hours before the mass arrests on Mauna Kea on Thursday.

Video by David Corrigan

MAUNA KEA – Waiting for Thirty Meter Telescope crews – and police – to arrive at Hale Pohaku on Mauna Kea, a growing group of protectors gathered in the dark before the dawn to discuss strategy.

Later that day, the world watched as 31 people were arrested by authorities for obstructing the Mauna Kea Access Road in opposition to the billion dollar Thirty Meter Telescope project underway on the Northern Plateau of the summit. Many involved in the action now believe the day was a pivotal moment in their effort to stop the telescope.

This video documents what was said before sunrise, as the hui gathered to share their mana’o, go over strategies when facing arrest, and emphasize the need to maintain their sense of aloha throughout the ordeal.

Kū, present on the day of the arrests and since, seen in the foreground as the sun rises over Hawaii Island on Thursday morning.