Commemoration of Lahaina wildfires anniversary sparks day of contemplation and resilience
In the heart of Maui, Hanaka'o'o Beach Park played host to over a thousand individuals on a poignant day, marking the second anniversary of the devastating wildfires that hit the region two years ago.
Gathered under clear skies, the crowd included Maui Mayor Richard Bissen, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, Gov. Josh Green, and three of Hawaii's four Congressional members. They convened at the Maui County building in Wailuku for a wind-whipped event, expressing gratitude for the acts of compassion that unfolded in the aftermath of the wildfires.
Bissen emphasised that Maui County demonstrated the true essence of aloha and ohana by standing together in unity during the trying times. The community, he stated, bore witness to countless acts of kindness as they navigated the challenges posed by the wildfires.
One such act of solidarity was the paddle-out at Hanaka'o'o Beach Park, led by the Lahaina Strong community. Kevin Tanaka, Saane Tone-Tanaka, and their family participated in the event, honouring five kupuna family members who tragically lost their lives in the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfires in Lahaina.
An estimated 350 people swam or paddled out on surfboards, boogie boards, and stand-up boards, culminating in a helicopter flower drop and participants joining hands to sing "Hawaii Aloha" in the water.
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz acknowledged that many people are still struggling to recover, emphasising that there is a long way to go in the rebuilding process. Gov. Green thanked first responders and demonstrators who pushed for faster action in providing health care, housing, and mental health support.
The paddle-out was the first event in a series of memorial events, collectively part of Kuhinia, Maui, to honour the victims and survivors and thank the first responders who risked their lives. The series aims to mark the disaster and reaffirm the strength and resilience of the community.
Rebuilding Lahaina, however, is a long-term task, as Council member Tamara Paltin, who represents West Maui, highlighted. The fires destroyed several homes, including those of the Takahashi family, who lost their home near the old Sugar Mill.
Warner Duldulao-Kahaialii, who participated in last year's paddle-out, found himself jobless for three months following the wildfires. De Andre and Lexi Takahashi and their sons, Mana and Makali'i, arrived early at the paddle-out to help Lahaina Strong coordinate the community swim.
An armada of Coast Guard, Maui fire, and Ocean Safety crews ensured the safety of participants during the paddle-out. Despite the turnout being "a little less" than the number of survivors and supporters who showed up for the first commemoration in 2024, the spirit of unity and resilience was palpable.
Lahaina Strong community spokesperson Paele Kiakona viewed the paddle-out as a reminder of the community's strength and willingness to support one another. Capt. Mike Sparling, west side captain for Maui County’s Ocean Safety Department, echoed this sentiment, stating that the event was a testament to the community's ability to come together in times of adversity.
The world, according to Green, witnessed "what the people of Maui can do" in the aftermath of the wildfires. As the community continues to rebuild and heal, the spirit of aloha and ohana remains strong, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience for all.
[1] Approximately 1,000 people participated in the 2023 paddle-out event, with over 500 on shore and about 350 in the water.
Traffic in Maui's Wailuku town increased during the wind-whipped event at the Maui County building, as various political figures and community members gathered. Community news outlets reported on the health and support services that were discussed at the event, with a focus on the ongoing rebuilding efforts in Lahaina. General news outlets also covered the one-of-a-kind memorial event at Hanaka'o'o Beach Park, where participants paddled out in solidarity, and highlighted the impact of such events on community morale and overall resilience.
