It has been just over a month since Maui, often dubbed the “paradise island” of the Pacific, was hit by devastating wildfires that claimed 115 lives.
The Korea Daily conducted a Zoom interview with Hawaii’s Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke. She is the State of Hawaii’s 16th lieutenant governor, the third woman to hold the office, and the highest-ranking Korean American in a U.S. statewide position.
“Aloha and thank you. The outpouring of prayers and love has been overwhelming. We will rise again.”
Lt. Gov. Luke has consistently been present in Maui County, overseeing relief operations. During her video interview with the Korea Daily on September 8, she described the situation as “hectic.” She visits the island almost every day to console residents and lead both state and federal investigative efforts.
When asked if she felt any semblance of normalcy, especially considering that this catastrophe occurred during her first eight months in office, Luke responded, “Not at all.”
“A significant effort is underway to determine the cause and find the missing,” she said. Currently, over 380 individuals remain unaccounted for.
However, amidst the adversity, the resilience and unity of the island’s inhabitants have deeply touched her.
“The sight of a chef, who lost his livelihood in the fire, selflessly setting up a cauldron in his community to prepare 12,000 meals daily is both heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring,” said Luke.
“These bleak moments illuminate genuine compassion. Relief supplies continue to reach Maui County. This experience has shown me that I still have much to learn as a political leader.”
Lt. Gov. Luke revealed that Hawaii plans to establish temporary shelters with federal assistance over the next two to three months. They will then transition to constructing permanent residences.
Regarding tourism in Maui, she stated, “Most areas are accessible, except some parts of West Maui. Locals from Oʻahu and nearby regions are returning to help Maui’s residents resume their daily lives.”
The global community’s support for Hawaii remains unwavering. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Korean government, the first to generously donate $2 million,” she said.
She further added, “The tremendous support from the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles and other Korean American organizations in Southern California is deeply appreciated.” Luke also praised the Maui Korean Community Association for setting a remarkable example for the Korean American community in Hawaii.
“I would like to thank the Korean American community for their prayers and concern. I also want to express my gratitude to the many family members and friends who have reached out to me,” said Lt. Gov. Luke.
BY BRIAN CHOI [ichoi@koreadaily.com]
