In the wake of devastating wildfires and subsequent storms, the residents of Lahaina, Maui, are rallying to reconstruct their community with an emphasis on local needs rather than catering to tourists. The grassroots movement, spearheaded by groups like Lahaina Strong, seeks to ensure that the rebuilding efforts reflect the values and history of the community, rather than the interests of visitors.
Community Resilience Amidst Adversity
The recent storms that struck Hawaii in March 2023 brought the worst flooding the region has experienced in two decades, exacerbating the challenges faced by a community still reeling from the catastrophic fires of 2023. These fires, which claimed over 100 lives and destroyed more than 2,000 structures, left many residents homeless and vulnerable. The recent flooding has further complicated recovery efforts, as muddy waters transformed streets into rivers and caused widespread damage.
Paele Kiakona, a dedicated organiser with Lahaina Strong, articulated the precarious situation many locals find themselves in. “So many people were hanging on by a thread as it is,” she remarked, underscoring the heightened poverty and unemployment that have plagued the area since the fires. Despite these setbacks, a palpable spirit of determination drives the residents to rebuild their community with a focus on sustainability and local heritage.
A Shift Towards Local Priorities
One of the most significant victories for Lahaina’s community came in December 2023 when the city council approved a law to phase out 7,000 vacation rentals—approximately 15% of the island’s housing stock. This move aims to repurpose these properties for fire survivors and other local residents. Kiakona expressed pride in the achievement, noting, “We passed legislation as community members, which is unheard of.”
The community’s proactive approach has been evident since the fires, where local efforts filled the void left by slow federal responses. Residents have banded together to clear debris, remove fallen trees, and divert floodwaters, demonstrating their commitment to mutual aid and resilience. “The community is so activated,” Kiakona stated, reflecting the collaborative spirit that has emerged in the aftermath of these crises.
Addressing Housing Inequality
The fear that recovery would be too slow and difficult has unfortunately become a reality, with approximately 3,400 residents leaving Lahaina due to financial instability exacerbated by the fires. Activists are now focused on creating a future for Lahaina that prioritises local residents, hoping to prevent further exodus and encourage those who have left to return.
Lahaina Strong has also drawn attention to the plight of fire survivors by establishing encampments near luxury hotels, highlighting the stark contrast between the needs of locals and the interests of the tourism sector. Their efforts culminated in a proposal to phase out short-term rentals by 2029, signalling a commitment to restoring housing equity.
The Lahaina Community Land Trust has also emerged as a key player in the recovery, purchasing homes to resell to locals at affordable prices. Executive Director Autumn Ness shared that their mission extends beyond affordable housing, aiming to restore connections to the land and ensure that it remains in local hands. So far, the trust has successfully acquired at least 20 parcels of land for housing, with plans to expand into commercial spaces that serve community needs.
Supporting Vulnerable Populations
While the push for housing stability is crucial, the road to recovery is fraught with challenges, especially for vulnerable populations like Lahaina’s large Filipino community. Nadine Ortega, director of Tagnawa, highlighted the struggles of Filipino immigrants, many of whom are employed in low-wage service jobs and face barriers to accessing formal assistance.
To address these gaps, Tagnawa has stepped in to connect fire survivors with disaster relief resources and provide essential services, including mental health workshops. However, the threat of increased immigration enforcement looms large, further complicating recovery efforts. Veronica Mendoza of Maui Roots Reborn noted the pervasive fear within the immigrant community, emphasising that such conditions impede their ability to fully heal.
In response to these challenges, local organisations are mobilising to provide “know-your-rights” training and rapid response networks to support vulnerable residents. “If there is anything that we can do to provide stability… we’re not only creating community, but we’re also creating stability in meaningful ways,” Mendoza explained.
Why it Matters
The ongoing struggle in Lahaina underscores the importance of community resilience in the face of disaster. As residents forge ahead with a vision that prioritises local needs and cultural heritage, their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in solidarity. By advocating for policies that protect their community and restore their connection to the land, Lahaina’s residents are not just rebuilding structures—they are rebuilding their identity and ensuring that their home can thrive for generations to come.