WHO WE ARE
The Interfaith Alliance of Maui is dedicated to fostering understanding and collaboration among various faith communities. Our mission is to promote interfaith dialogue, social justice, and community service. We believe in the power of unity, respect, and compassion to bring about positive change in our society. Join us as we work together to create a more inclusive and harmonious world, where every voice is heard and valued.
Founded in 2022, The Interfaith Alliance of Maui originally came together to share and discuss ways faith leaders could help their congregations become more open to and affirming of those within the LGBTQIA+ community. Kerry Kiyohara, from the Makawao Hongwanji Buddhist Temple in Makawao sent an email invitation for a talk-story. From those talks, he created a brochure laying out a welcoming approach within Hongwanji Buddhism here on the islands, and a very special interfaith group was formed.
WHAT WE DO
Engaging Faith Communities for a Better Tomorrow
At The Interfaith Alliance of Maui, we facilitate interfaith discussions, organize community service projects and events, and advocate for social justice initiatives. Our programs aim to educate and inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds to work together in addressing societal challenges. Through events, workshops, and outreach activities, we strive to bridge gaps between different faiths and cultures, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose in our island community.
In addition to LGBTQIA+ rights, our focus has expanded to Hawaiian cultural concerns, immigration rights, and race equality. One member has presented a course aimed at disarming the "clobber passages" of the Bible, often used to attack LGBT+ persons. We have hosted guest speakers, such as George Takei and Kaleikukamakani Ruiz, and we have held International Day of Peace events. We are supporters of Roots Reborn Maui and many of our members have been trained to record ICE activities in the area. Other activities include a movie with discussion to recognize Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with the aim of decreasing racial discrimination and promoting race rights. We also participate in the annual Maui Matsuri Obon to offer interfaith blessing for the entire community of Maui.