Melelani T.

I grew up in the welcoming diversity of Hawaii but made the fateful decision 34 years ago to move to South Carolina when my husband was stationed here. After our divorce, I chose to remain, even turning down an offer from my Hawaiian boss to return home. It was the worst choice I ever made.

Over the decades, I found jobs but all were low paying until I entered the vacation rental field. I loved connecting visitors to this beautiful state, reminiscent of my Hawaii hospitality roots. For years at one company, I got along well with colleagues and bosses, even being offered a same position when another agency acquired us.

But then subtle racism I had brushed off became overt. With the manager away, a coworker harshly told me to “go back to my country.” I was shocked, having considered America my country for most of my life. Another coworker laughed at the cruel statement.

When I told the manager, she dismissed it as just “how she is.” I now see the toxic office politics that pitted us against each other.

Soon after, COVID-19 decimated the vacation industry. We were abruptly laid off, though I received generous vacation payouts. Despite extensive job searching over two years, it was impossible to get rehired. My coworkers were rehired at other local rental agencies and I can’t help but wonder if they continued to bad mouth me to the employers in the area. 

I kept searching for work, but after developing tinnitus, it has been very difficult. Also, after what happened in Atlanta, I don’t like to go out except in the mornings. 

At 62, I had to painfully start Social Security early just to pay basic bills. After a lifetime of hard work, I feel defeated. I should’ve moved back to Hawaii. Aloha.