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Hello Nicole,
Last week, our city experienced a once-in-a-lifetime storm. We are grateful that the storm did not devastate Los Angeles, and we appreciate Mayor Karen Bass for activating a strong emergency response. When there is a crisis we all mobilize and we do it - together.
Likewise, with the crisis of hate and discrimination impacting society, we're stronger when we're united.
With a city so rich in diversity, it takes all of us - as allies - to get through life's storms and build a better, more prosperous future. To prosper, we must first act! We've watched tragedies in places like Jacksonville, Florida to Los Angeles, California, where residents shopping at a dollar store or exercising in their neighborhoods have been killed because of their identities. However, we know hate speech and other acts of hate can lead to hate murders. Therefore, when we see hateful acts from micro-aggressions to outright hate crimes, we need to unify and stand as allies for a better LA. Allyship isn't just about acknowledging one's privilege as a means of supporting marginalized groups, it's about walking the walk with those who have suffered harm.
At LA Civil Rights, we walk that walk every day and our team is an ally in many forms, including by partnering with students for our award-winning #LAForAll Campaign, convening our Human Relations Commission, addressing the day-to-day needs of Angelenos at our Peace and Healing Centers, and providing access to career opportunities by hosting job fairs. Our department is filled with resources to help anyone get involved in creating a better Los Angeles for ALL!
We are providing additional opportunities across the city for you to stand shoulder to shoulder with your fellow Angelenos and get involved! During the month of September, LA Civil Rights, city leaders, and our fellow city departments are providing exciting Latino Heritage Month celebrations. Visit the Department of Cultural Affairs website for more information. We're also kicking off our annual #LAForAll Week later in the month (see call to action item below), and I look forward to seeing you at one of our many city events. Attending events like these are an excellent way for us to get through storms together and begin or continue allyships with fellow Angelenos in the fight for equity, justice, and a more inclusive Los Angeles.
Keep the faith and keep the fight,
- Capri Maddox
Executive Director
Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department
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