The Maui Fires, Current Status, and the Latest Land Grab Battle

In the wake of the devastating Maui fires that claimed at least 111 lives last week, we at Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation (NASP) stand in solidarity with the people of Hawaii. The fires have destroyed homes and lives and exposed a new threat to the land and its people.

Current Status

The Maui fires have left a trail of destruction, with much of Lahaina destroyed and other communities severely affected.

Poor Land Management: The rapid spread of non-native grasses like guinea grass, molasses grass, and buffel grass has contributed to the intensity of the fires – reports the New York Times. These grasses, occupying nearly a quarter of Hawaii’s landmass, have become a ticking time bomb. Investigators are still determining the exact cause, but the region’s wildfire vulnerability has been known for years.

Damaged Power Lines: According to research by Whisker Labs, and reported by ABC News, the first reported wildfire in Maui might have been caused by damaged power lines. Hawaiian Electric, the subject of a class-action lawsuit by victims, declined to comment on the findings.

Those who dodged a barricade survived: The deadly wildfire in Lahaina, Maui, which became the site of the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century, resulted in chaos and over 100 deaths as residents desperately tried to escape, with road closures, downed power lines, and a lack of timely warnings contributing to the tragedy; read the full story on ABC News.

Decision Not to Sound the Sirens: The decision not to use emergency sirens during the Maui fires has come under scrutiny. According to a report from Yahoo News, officials opted not to activate the sirens, fearing it would cause unnecessary panic and confusion.

Water Release Delay: Kaleo Manuel, an official at the Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM), is under scrutiny for a delay in releasing water that may have hindered firefighters’ efforts, says Newsweek. Manuel has been reassigned while investigations are ongoing.

A New Effort to Grab Land

Predatory Investors: In the aftermath of the fires, predatory investors are looking to capitalize on the suffering of the Maui families by acquiring their land at a fraction of its value, says reports from CNN.

Government Overreach: The broad powers granted to the government under emergency statutes threaten private land ownership. This law must be challenged to prevent undue control and potential abuse.

Why People Should Feel Protective of Their Land

The land is not just a property but a sacred connection to our heritage, culture, and identity, as told to ABC Australia. The Maui fires have exposed the fragility of this connection and the urgent need to protect it. We must stand against predatory investors and government overreach and invest in sustainable land management practices to prevent future disasters.

Survivors of the devastating Maui fires have set up their own aid network as distrust in government response has been slow or unseen, reports NBC News. Many residents are still without power and Internet service. Many Native Hawaiians are leading the relief efforts, emphasizing self-reliance and community support.

A Beacon of Hope: People Helping People

We at NASP are deeply moved by the People Helping People nonprofit organization for its unwavering commitment to the people of Maui. Their efforts, as shared by Mike Yoder, Esq. on Instagram, to safeguard the rights, lands, and futures of those affected by the Maui fires are commendable. They are focused on preventing government overreach, shielding the vulnerable from predatory investors, and challenging insurance carriers to honor their commitments. Their initiative offers legal assistance and brings hope and a promise of a brighter tomorrow. Together, we stand united in ensuring that the people of Maui receive the support and justice they deserve.

The Maui Legal Preservation Fund is dedicated to assisting victims of the Maui fires in protecting their land, families, and rights against potential government overreach.