Scores of surfers and paddleboarders gather to pay their respects to the 102 people who died in the 2023 Lahaina wildfire on Friday, the second anniversary of the deadly fire. Photo courtesy Maui County

Surfers gather at Hanakao’o Beach Park in West Maui for a paddle-out ceremony to commemorate the anniversary of the 2023 Lahaina wildfire. Maui News photo/Gary Kubota

Although surf warnings were up at Hanakao’o Beach Park because of the occasional one to three foot wave and strong currents, the winds were gentle and there was some light laughter with people speaking in hushed tones out of respect and in memory of the 102 people who died in the fire and survivors in attendance.

Kaiser Permanente and Piha Wellness & Healing tents were pitched with medical staff in the event anyone had a moment when they wanted to speak with trained counselors.

Scores of people paddled through the waves on their surfboards to create the paddle-out ceremony with some paddlers and boaters honoring individuals who perished.

To the surfers’ cheers, a helicopter circled above, repeatedly dropping flowers.

Live music was provided by Na Leo Pilimehama, and the plate lunches were free. The paddle out was supported by the county and by volunteers from various organizations including the Hawaiian Civic Club and the Napili Canoe Club, many of whose members continue to struggle themselves.

“The majority of them lost it all,” said Rolan Morel, a club member, who was there to support his club members and others.

Some who attended the ceremony lost more than one relative.

Lahaina resident Kainoa Lum said she lost her cousins Donna Gomes and Coleen Jones, along with classmates Michael Misaka and Albert Kitaguchi, with the names rolling out from her lips, followed by a long silence.

Before the paddle out, Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin, who lives in West Maui, spoke about how Lahaina has come a long way and still has a long way to go.

“We know that everything is a struggle, sometimes more, sometimes less,” Paltin said. “Just know we won’t ever stop fighting for you and working hard for you. We’ll get there together.”

Members of the group Lahaina Strong said they see gatherings such as the paddle out as a way that helps Lahaina gather and demonstrate its strength.

“This is how Lahaina heals best,” said Courtney Lazo, community resilience leader for Lahaina Strong. “That’s what makes Lahaina, Lahaina.”

Lazo said the group is committed to making sure Lahaina continues to create spaces where they can gather and heal.

Paele Kiakona, a spokesperson for Lahaina Strong, said he was reassured by the attendance at the event and people have told him that it gives them hope and a belief they have a chance to rebuild and stay in Lahaina.

“Today is not the day for us to think about all of the hardships,” he said. “Today is the day for us to be together with one another.”