Community collaboration to share Malama Maui Pins
In the aftermath of the devastating fires that swept through Maui in August 2023, a concerned resident from West Maui, in collaboration with the Maui Chamber of Commerce, Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, LahainaTown Action Committee, West Maui Taxpayers Association and Maui Vacation Rentals Association, initiated the creation of the Malama Maui Pin. This collaborative effort stems from a recognition of the enormous grief and trauma experienced by our community.
As we work toward recovery, we confront a unique challenge. Our economy is intricately tied to tourism, yet our residents urgently require the time and space to grieve and heal. With many being called back to work, they are left with limited opportunities to process the trauma they have endured.
In response to hearing and talking with many residents about this delicate balance, the Malama Maui Pin was born.
The pin, named after the Hawaiian phrase “Malama Maui,” signifying “Caring for Maui,” hopes to offer solace to residents while providing guidance for visitors. Its fundamental purpose is to establish a supportive environment for our residents by offering a visual cue to visitors, signifying the importance of refraining from inquiring about the experiences of Maui residents, thus respecting their privacy.
Lisa Paulson, executive director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, said: “The Malama Maui Pin coordinates beautifully with all our messaging on how to visit Maui with respect and compassion. Many survivors are not ready to share their experiences with others.”
This seemingly small gesture, embodied by the Malama Maui Pin, hopes to serve, and safeguard our people and provides a visual cue for visitors to understand how to engage or not engage with our community.
Guidelines for the Malama Maui Pin:
1. Privacy and Healing: By wearing the pin, community members signal that they may be processing their experiences in their own way and request that their privacy be respected.
2. Promoting Empathy: If you encounter someone wearing the hospitality pin, refrain from asking about their experiences or the fire unless they initiate the conversation. Give them space to share their thoughts and feelings if they choose to do so.
3. Fostering Community Unity: The hospitality pin fosters a sense of unity, reminding everyone that they are part of a caring community that supports one another during times of hardship.
4. Be a Good Listener: If someone wearing the pin decides to open up, be a compassionate listener. Offer support and understanding without judgment.
5. Spread the Message: Encourage others to respect the privacy of individuals wearing the pin.
The more people who understand its significance, the more supportive the community will be.
“Both residents and visitors want to be respectful to all impacted by the wildfires and understand many residents and those returning to work are not ready to discuss the impacts of the wildfires or share their stories. Therefore, the Malama Maui pin was created to give us all guidance on how we can honor and best care for those wearing them,” said Maui Chamber of Commerce President Pamela Tumpap.
“The Maui Chamber of Commerce is proud to support this community effort by helping make pins available for those who wish to get them for themselves or give them to their family, friends, or employees.”