Statement on the Los Angeles Climate Catastrophe

Last week, starting on Tuesday, January 7th, wildfires driven by climate change began to ravage Los Angeles County. Our hearts are broken for the over 180,000 people who have been displaced from their homes, the thousands of homes and businesses that have been destroyed, and the lives that have been lost. Our hearts go out to everyone directly affected by these disasters.

We also stand in solidarity with the communities who are facing the extended impacts of this destruction, including working class people who live outside the fire zones but have lost their livelihoods and face poisonous air quality conditions without proper protection. This crisis will leave deep scars, but will also shine a light on the strength and resilience of our communities.

In the face of this climate crisis, everyday Angelenos have been coming together to support one another. We are witnessing the incredible efforts by firefighters and emergency workers to save homes and lives. We are also seeing community groups, churches and local government agencies working together to provide shelter, food and supplies to the displaced. Our local partners have immediately mobilized to conduct wellness checks, organize community resources, and provide mutual aid and real support to those in need.We are standing together, like we have in past crises, to ensure that no one is alone or abandoned. In this climate catastrophe, community members are filling in the gaps in our infrastructure and safety net, created by corporations and billionaires who fail to pay their fair share. This is the strength and unity we will need in the difficult days and months ahead, as we begin to rebuild. 

The emergency responses that we’ve seen, whether it’s effective and free transportation or shelter and rapid response housing support, are evidence of what is possible when our government prioritizes people’s needs over corporate needs. When the fires are out and we begin to rebuild, this is the government that must show up to ensure that LA County rebuilds equitably –  so that every community, regardless of who lives here — is able to thrive. 

Let this be the moment when we not only stand together, but stay together. Now is the time to get involved in the fight for bolder investments and structural changes that work for all of us – not just the privileged few. If anything, this week proves that climate change is not just a theory or hoax. It is here and here to stay. We must ensure that this moment becomes a launchpad for long-term action and change that makes all our communities stronger, safer and healthier. Our survival depends on it — and each other.

Signed,

All donations will support immediate needs resulting from the catastrophic fires in the region, and the ongoing direct organizing of impacted residents to fight for the recovery, health, safety, and housing needs in the community. 

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