This week the Maui Housing Hui held a renter’s rights training at the Cameron Center. The event aimed to empower renters by providing them with comprehensive information on their rights and responsibilities. In collaboration with Speak Out and Up Law, this social justice initiative training session covered a wide range of topics, including landlord-tenant law, lease agreements, eviction procedures, and fair housing practices. By shedding light on the nuances of the legal framework, our goal was to equip renters with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate housing issues effectively. The partnership with Speak Out and Up Law ensured that attendees received expert guidance and practical advice tailored to their specific needs. Through these efforts, we aimed to foster a community where renters are well-informed and empowered to advocate for their rights.

We invited community members to join us on Tuesday evening for some delicious food from our locally-owned Pinatas restaurant. Our very own hui member, Rochelle, was also available to organize fun and engaging activities for the keiki. The event kicked off with an opportunity for everyone to enjoy a bite to eat, engage in casual conversation, and build community bonds. Following the meal, we were all ready for a thought-provoking presentation. Leslee from S.O.U.L. delivered an informative session covering the basics of issues like discrimination in housing, emergency repairs, defining eviction procedures, and the importance of assistance animals in housing rights. Her thorough explanations were met with attentive engagement from all attendees, proving to be both valuable and deeply helpful to everyone present.

Jordan from Maui Housing Hui presented next, covering topics from types of leases, security deposits, and right to enter. Some of the most valuable material Jordan shared was about advocacy and solutions, like how to deal with a hostile landlord and who to contact if you believe your rights are violated. Options such as mediation services and contacting a lawyer were some potential solutions. Furthermore, Jordan delved into the importance of understanding the timeline when you receive a notice to vacate and the legal implications of each lease length, providing attendees with practical tips to navigate through complexity of vacating. Additionally, Jordan highlighted the significance of documentation when dealing with landlord-tenant disputes, emphasizing the need to maintain a record of all communication and assessing your safety in the face of conflict.

The session concluded with a Q&A segment, where participants had the opportunity to seek clarification on specific scenarios relevant to their housing situations, fostering a sense of empowerment and knowledge among all attendees. Both Leslee and Jordan fielded each question with clarity, drawing from their extensive experience and expertise in housing issues. Their insightful responses provided valuable guidance to the audience, creating an atmosphere of active engagement and exchange of ideas. Additionally, Jade and Nara, members of the Maui Housing Hui, offered their perspectives and knowledge, enriching the discussion with diverse viewpoints and practical advice. As the Q&A session unfolded, it became evident that the collaborative efforts of the speakers led to an enriching and educational experience for everyone involved.

The first goal of a successful event was to allow renters to leave with more confidence in understanding their rights and responsibilities as an act of social justice. This encompassed lease agreements, tenant protections, and the legal protections that govern rental arrangements. By providing in-depth insights, real-life examples, and practical advice, the event aimed to empower renters with the knowledge they need to navigate complex tenancy matters with confidence. Another valuable goal was to give renters an opportunity to bring their questions to a space they felt safe to explore what they needed to know. This included creating an open and inclusive environment where individuals could freely discuss concerns, seek clarification, and engage in meaningful conversations with experts in the field. The event also sought to foster a sense of community and support among renters, ensuring that they felt comfortable and empowered to advocate for their rights and make informed decisions about their housing situations.

Maui Housing Hui and Speak Out and Up Law extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who actively participated in this vital social justice initiative aimed at empowering renters and advocating for their rights. The overwhelming support and engagement we received have inspired us to continue our efforts in providing invaluable information and resources for more renters in the near future. Your involvement and commitment are integral to our mission, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to further our impact and reach within the community.