Coproduction or everyday acts of resistance: exploring the role of grassroots actors in the aftermath of the 2023 Maui fires

Purpose While coproduction is widely promoted in public service delivery, existing scholarship often centers on formal government-led collaborations, overlooking the decentralized and sometimes resistant roles that communities play – especially after disasters. This study examines how grassroots actors in Maui, Hawai’i contributed to recovery following the 2023 wildfires, either in coordination with or in defiance of government efforts. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on theories of coproduction and everyday resistance, we conducted 32 semi-structured interviews and analyzed 413 social media posts to understand local perspectives on recovery services. Findings Findings reveal how informal networks filled service gaps, challenged bureaucratic inefficiencies and redefined public value on their own terms. Originality/value We argue for a broader understanding of coproduction that includes resistance-based engagement and emphasizes the importance of cultural and political contexts in shaping post-disaster civic–government relationships.