This morning, nearly 1,000 people came together — hearts heavy but hopeful — to honor the second anniversary of the Maui wildfires with an emotional, vibrant paddle out off Hanaka‘ō‘ō Beach Park in Lahaina.

The paddle-out ceremony had more than 500 participants on shore and about 350 in the water -- a powerful tribute to the lives lost and the shared strength of Maui’s residents. The 2023 wildfires tragically claimed 102 lives, left two unaccounted for and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses in Lahaina and Upcountry.

The atmosphere today flowed with deep reflection and hope. As Maui continues its journey of recovery, the paddle out stands as a testament to remembrance, togetherness and the collective aloha that gives Maui its unique identity.

During the opening ceremony, Maui County Council Member Paltin, whose district covers West Maui, emphasized the importance of being together amid grief and hardship. “We wanted to make sure nobody felt alone,” she said. “We know that every day is a struggle, some days more, some days less.”

Paltin added that there are many signs of hope: “This is a horrible thing that happened, but already I see that the pilina people are making with each other and with the ‘āina -- it’s getting stronger.”

Lahaina Strong community group spokesperson Paele Kiakona during the opening echoed similar sentiments.

“I’m not happy this happened to us, but I’m happy that it didn’t happen to anybody else -- because I know this town, this community, this people is so strong and they’re willing to fight for one another, stand up and be there,” he said. “That’s what today is, it’s a reminder of that.”

Also during today’s gathering from 9:30 a.m. to about noon, flowers were scattered over the paddle out by Blue Hawaiian Helicopters and homing pigeons were released onshore. County Department of ʻŌiwi Resources Director and Kumu Kapono‘ai Molitau led a heartfelt pule, Alakaʻi Paleka served as emcee and music was provided onstage by Na Leo Pilimehana. Food was donated by West Maui resorts, and shuttles were provided to and from the Lahaina Civic Center.

The community gathering this morning marks the start of the wildfire anniversary tribute called Kuhinia Maui. The paddle out will be followed by a Midday Gathering in Central Maui and an Evening Tribute in West Maui.

Community led, with County of Maui support, Kuhinia Maui gatherings mark the second anniversary of the Maui wildfires, honoring lost loved ones and celebrating the community’s resilience. Named after a line from a traditional Maui chant, Kuhinia Maui reflects the island’s beauty and spirit to rise from tragedy. For the full event schedule, visit www.kuhiniamaui.org.

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