Black, Latino Fire Victims Should Not Be Left Behind in Recovery, Groups Say
Community Leaders Urge Equitable Recovery Efforts
In the aftermath of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, community leaders issued a message: don’t forget about people of color who, left with nothing, could be victimized by scams and in jeopardy of not being able to return to their neighborhoods.
According to the most recent census data, nearly 6% of the population in Altadena is Asian, 18% are Black, and 27% are Latino or Hispanic. Pasadena has a 7% Black population, nearly 18% Asian population, and 34% Latino or Hispanic population.
More Than 100 People Gather to Discuss Recovery Efforts
More than 100 people gathered for a news conference at the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Pasadena to hear stories of losses, hopes for the future, and to discuss how to ensure that affected Black and Latino residents can continue to be homeowners.
Pastor Kerwin Manning’s Message of Hope
“Our No. 1 is preventing speculators from preying on us and our land,” Pastor Kerwin Manning of Pasadena Church on Washington Boulevard said. Manning, who lost his home in the fire, worries for the future of his Black community, as well as other people of color that populate it.
“We’ve got to rebuild in a way that protects our common home and (cultural) climate. We’ve got to support every resident impacted by these fires, regardless of immigration status,” he said.
Fay Austin’s Story of Resilience
Longtime Altadena resident Fay Austin, one of the speakers who shared her harrowing story, has lived an independent life since she was 20. Now, at 88, she’s learning to ask for and accept help from others after losing her house to the Eaton fire.
Like many others, Austin and Manning said they have seen people price gouging following the fires because people need quick housing options more than ever.
Community’s Recovery Efforts
The community’s recovery isn’t about one congregation or organization, Manning said. Instead, it’s a community effort to make sure those who lost their homes aren’t taken advantage of or gentrified out of the area.
Conclusion
As the recovery efforts continue, it is crucial that the needs of Black and Latino fire victims are prioritized. The community must come together to ensure that those who lost their homes are not left behind and that the area’s rich diversity is preserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current situation in Altadena and Pasadena?
A: The area is still reeling from the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires, which left many people without homes.
Q: What are the concerns of the Black and Latino communities?
A: They are worried about being priced out of their neighborhoods and taken advantage of by speculators.
Q: What is being done to address these concerns?
A: Community leaders are urging elected officials to take action to ensure an equitable recovery effort, and organizations are working to provide support to those affected.
Q: What is the message of hope for the future?
A: The message is one of resilience, faith, and community. Despite the loss and devastation, the community is coming together to rebuild and recover.
