A striking contrast between billionaires has captured the attention of both residents and social media users regarding their responses to the victims of the tragic wildfires in Maui, Hawaii.
On one side stands Elon Musk, the visionary behind SpaceX and Tesla, who has delivered hope in the form of Starlink internet kits to over 40 organizations, helping victims reconnect.
On the other side looms Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul and landowner, who some say has fallen short in a time of crisis.
“I haven’t met a SINGLE person here on Maui that’s gotten a dime from Oprah, but I’ve met dozens that’ve benefited TREMENDOUSLY from @SpaceX’s internet connection,” one local resident expressed, echoing the sentiments of many others.
Oprah Winfrey, who owns a sprawling 2,200-acre estate on the island, is now facing a wave of public criticism for her perceived inaction. While the island grapples with pressing issues such as connectivity and resources, the call for her assistance has grown louder.
One organization on the island, operating just ten free Starlink internet stations, revealed they are processing an astounding TEN TERABYTES of data per day. This level of usage underscores the crucial role that Musk’s technology has played in re-establishing connections for Maui’s residents.
As calls for Oprah to step up intensify, some netizens have outlined a series of actions they believe could help mitigate the growing public condemnation.
Among their suggestions are a substantial $500 million donation, relinquishing a portion of her vast land holdings to displaced victims, providing legal support for a class-action lawsuit against local authorities, and investing in a desalination plant to secure a future water supply for Maui.
Critics have drawn parallels between Oprah’s current situation and her past actions. One user also pointed to her decision not to interview her close friend Harvey Weinstein but instead targeting the late Michael Jackson after his acquittal, despite allegations against her interview subjects who have previously lied under oath.
The stark contrast between Elon Musk’s generosity and Oprah’s perceived inaction has ignited a passionate debate on social media, underscoring the responsibilities and expectations placed on billionaires in times of crisis. Maui’s residents eagerly await Oprah’s response as the island grapples with pressing challenges.
The Daily Netizen 