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The Endurance of ‘Ohana: Hawaii’s Timeless Family Ethos Amidst Catastrophe

by Chloe Baker
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Resilience of 'Ohana

Communities are engulfed in sorrow; families left fragmented. Over a hundred lives have been claimed by fire, with hundreds more still missing, as destructive flames engulfed the historical township of Lahaina.

Yet even in settings swamped by despair and destruction, the enduring Hawaiian ethos of ‘ohana persists.

In the Hawaiian vernacular, ‘ohana encapsulates much more than just familial ties—it signifies belonging, community, and an emotional refuge during tumultuous times. Amidst contemporary disunity, it serves as a binding principle. In the wake of recent calamities, this term has taken on a deeper significance in a community seeking assistance.

Dustin Kaleiopu, a resident with ancestral ties to the days of Hawaiian monarchy, asserts, “During such hardships, ‘ohana becomes more resilient.”

The Native Hawaiians, known as the kanaka of Hawaii, place high value on ‘ohana, which transcends biological connections. It signifies a life enriched by the bonds of kinship.

Kaleiopu, who, along with his grandfather, survived the devastating fires that reduced their home to ashes, notes, “In a close-knit community like Lahaina, everyone knows each other; we’ve all grown up together.”

Resilience of ‘Ohana Tested

In an environment consumed by flames and destruction, finding a semblance of solace can be almost inconceivable. Lahaina faces this reality as the air slowly clears of smoke.

Over a thousand homes have been decimated, and as per the latest counts, close to 400 residents are still unaccounted for—comprising an array of relationships that make up someone’s ‘ohana.

Kapali Keahi, a long-time resident, affirms, “Many families have been displaced; hence, it becomes imperative to look after our community, which in this context, is our ‘ohana.”

As the aftermath stretches into weeks following the deadliest wildfire in over a century in the United States, community reliance on external help persists. Shipments of essentials continue to arrive from other Hawaiian islands, including Oahu, where Honolulu is located.

Online crowdfunding initiatives have raised significant amounts, some well over $1.2 million, with contributions coming from across the globe.

Kekai Keahi, another resident, observes, “Though much has been lost, ‘ohana remains steadfast; it is the thread that keeps us connected.”

A Community United by Diverse Origins

Lahaina’s community of 13,000 includes immigrants from various global locales. Regardless of their origins, new residents quickly embrace Hawaii’s rich cultural tapestry, which predates even the arrival of British explorer Capt. James Cook nearly 250 years ago.

As they adapt, they also adopt the vocabulary that defines island life. In this context, ‘ohana stands as a cornerstone—eloquently defined in the film “Lilo & Stitch” as meaning “family, and family means nobody is left behind or forgotten.”

In a community dealing with such profound loss, this sentiment finds deep resonance.

Mike Tomas, who lost his home in the fire, affirms, “Family is everything here.” His immediate family is currently seeking refuge with friends and relatives. Despite the devastation, he pledges to return. “This is where family is,” he asserts.

Amber Bobin, a Chicago native who moved to Maui nearly four years ago, recently participated in hanging crosses to commemorate each life lost. The number of crosses is expected to rise, even as ribbons are added for each missing individual.

In good times and bad, ‘ohana serves as a perpetual mindset, ensuring that those who were a part of you continue to be so, even when separated by unimaginable circumstances.

Bobin reflects, “The experience of what ‘ohana means, particularly in times of tragedy, has had a significant impact on me.”

Thus, ‘ohana stands as a defining ethos for a community faced with staggering loss, but bound by an unbreakable spirit of unity and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Resilience of ‘Ohana

What is the central theme of the article?

The central theme of the article is the resilience and enduring importance of the Hawaiian concept of ‘ohana, particularly in the face of the devastating wildfire that struck the town of Lahaina. It emphasizes how the spirit of ‘ohana has helped the community come together and provide emotional and material support to those affected.

What does ‘ohana signify in Hawaiian culture?

In Hawaiian culture, ‘ohana encompasses much more than biological family. It signifies a sense of belonging, community, and emotional refuge, especially during difficult times. The article illustrates how ‘ohana serves as a unifying ethos that has taken on deeper significance following the tragedy.

How has the community responded to the disaster?

The community has responded with significant acts of generosity and unity. Essential supplies continue to arrive from other islands, and crowdfunding efforts have raised significant amounts of money to aid in relief efforts. The importance of ‘ohana has been felt more strongly than ever, binding the community together in its time of need.

Who are some of the individuals mentioned and what roles do they play?

Dustin Kaleiopu, Kapali Keahi, Kekai Keahi, Mike Tomas, and Amber Bobin are among the individuals mentioned. Each represents different aspects of the community’s response to the crisis. They illustrate the strength of ‘ohana by sharing personal experiences and insights into how the community is pulling together.

What does the article say about Lahaina’s diverse community?

The article highlights that Lahaina is home to a diverse community of 13,000 people, including immigrants from around the world. Despite their varied origins, newcomers quickly adopt the island’s culture and vocabulary, especially the concept of ‘ohana. The ethos is considered a cornerstone of island life and has helped unify the community in the wake of the disaster.

How have online fundraisers contributed to the relief efforts?

Online crowdfunding initiatives have proven to be effective in raising substantial amounts for the affected community. One relief fund has well surpassed $1.2 million, demonstrating the widespread support from donors both local and global.

What is the significance of the crosses and ribbons mentioned in the article?

Amber Bobin participated in hanging crosses along the road to commemorate each life lost in the wildfire. Ribbons have also been added for each missing individual. These symbols serve to embody the essence of ‘ohana during tough times, ensuring that those lost or missing continue to be a part of the community’s collective memory.

What message does the article aim to convey to its readers?

The article aims to convey the resilience and importance of the ‘ohana spirit as a means of coping with catastrophic events. It illustrates that, despite profound loss and hardship, ‘ohana remains an unbreakable thread that binds the community together.

More about Resilience of ‘Ohana

  • Understanding ‘Ohana: The Hawaiian Family Concept
  • The Devastating Lahaina Wildfire: What Happened
  • The Role of Community in Coping with Disasters
  • Hawaiians’ Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
  • Crowdfunding in Disaster Relief: A Case Study
  • Hawaiian Culture and Its Influence on Community
  • The History of Lahaina, Hawaii
  • The Psychology of Coping with Natural Disasters
  • Native Hawaiian Traditions and Community Strength
  • Importance of Community Support in Crisis Situations

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