In the aftermath of devastating wildfires and recent storms, residents of Lahaina, Maui, are demonstrating resilience and solidarity as they strive to rebuild their town for the benefit of the local community rather than for tourism. Efforts led by grassroots organisations highlight a commitment to restoring not just homes, but the very essence of what makes Lahaina a unique place.
A Community Resilient in Crisis
In March 2026, a series of torrential storms wreaked havoc across Hawaii, resulting in flooding that the region had not witnessed in two decades. Lahaina, still reeling from the catastrophic wildfires of 2023, saw streets transformed into rivers, with floodwaters damaging infrastructure and homes. The scars of the past remain vivid, as sinkholes appeared, swallowing vehicles and serving as a stark reminder of the community’s ongoing struggles.
The wildfires claimed over 2,000 structures and resulted in more than 100 fatalities, leaving hundreds of families in temporary accommodations long after the flames were extinguished. Economic hardships, including rising poverty and unemployment, have only exacerbated the situation. “So many people were hanging on by a thread as it is,” remarked Paele Kiakona, an organiser with the grassroots group Lahaina Strong.
Yet, amid adversity, the spirit of collective action prevails. Residents are resolutely focused on transforming Lahaina into a community that prioritises its own members over transient visitors. Initiatives such as Kaiāulu Initiatives are working to replenish the land with native flora, reclaiming areas previously devastated by water diversion and fires. Meanwhile, the Nā ’Aikāne o Maui Cultural Center seeks to ensure that the redevelopment of Front Street reflects the town’s rich Native Hawaiian heritage.
Legislative Changes for Local Housing
One of the most significant achievements for community advocates has been the passage of a new law aimed at curbing short-term vacation rentals. In December, the Lahaina city council approved a measure to phase out approximately 7,000 short-term rentals — about 15% of the island’s housing supply — to provide accommodation for fire survivors and local residents. “We passed legislation as community members, which is unheard of,” Kiakona stated, emphasising the grassroots nature of the movement.
This legislative victory aligns with broader efforts to prioritise local needs over the demands of tourism. Following the fires, many locals faced a harsh reality — about 3,400 residents departed the island due to inadequate insurance payouts, inconsistent federal assistance, and soaring rental prices. By advocating for a community-centric future, organisers aspire to not only retain current residents but also entice those who have left to return home.
Initiatives for Sustainable Community Development
Lahaina Strong has been at the forefront of public demonstrations, including encampments near luxury resorts on Kāʻanapali Beach. These protests highlighted the stark disparity between the prioritisation of tourist accommodations and the urgent need for housing for fire survivors. Activists showcased their plight with slogans such as “fishing for housing,” effectively drawing attention to the imbalances in local governance.
The pressure exerted by residents led to a commitment from local officials to phase out short-term rentals by 2029 in West Maui, with an island-wide implementation by 2031. Kiakona articulated a vision for the future: “We’ve put so much effort into making things better for our home that the status quo would be the end of us again.” With such a mindset, Kiakona is now running for a seat in the Hawaii statehouse, aiming to further advocate for local needs.
Another promising initiative is the establishment of the Lahaina Community Land Trust, which aims to acquire homes for local residents and resell them at affordable prices. This approach seeks to maintain local ownership of land and prevent it from falling into the hands of outside investors. “Our vision is restoring relationship to ‘āina [land],” explained Autumn Ness, executive director of the trust, emphasising the project’s broader implications beyond mere housing.
Addressing Vulnerabilities in the Community
While securing housing is vital, the challenge of returning and integrating residents into their homes is equally complex. Many community members, particularly Lahaina’s Filipino immigrants — who constitute around 40% of the population — face unique obstacles. Nadine Ortega, executive director of Tagnawa, noted that many immigrant families, often working multiple jobs, struggle to participate in community advocacy due to childcare and scheduling issues.
To combat these disparities, Tagnawa has stepped in to offer crucial services, including disaster relief in native languages, health assessments, and mental health workshops. The community is also grappling with the shadow of increased ICE operations, which, while less visible than on other Hawaiian islands, still instil fear among many residents. “You always have to be looking behind your back,” said Veronica Mendoza, executive director of Maui Roots Reborn, highlighting the psychological toll of such uncertainty.
In response, Maui Roots Reborn has developed a range of support initiatives, from “know your rights” training to rapid response networks aimed at protecting vulnerable residents. As they navigate these challenges, community leaders emphasise the importance of solidarity, reinforcing the idea that “bureaucracy gets in the way a lot of the time, so sometimes the community just needs to take action,” as Kiakona succinctly put it.
Why it Matters
The ongoing efforts in Lahaina serve as a powerful testament to the strength of community resilience in the face of disaster. By prioritising local needs over tourism, residents are not only striving to restore their town but are also redefining what recovery looks like in the context of environmental and social challenges. Their commitment to mutual support and sustainable practices may well offer a blueprint for other communities facing similar crises, demonstrating that collective action can lead to meaningful change.
