WSSN Stories

LOS ANGELES, CA—Forest Lawn–Glendale celebrates Black History Month with a free, family-friendly event. The evening features a one-night-only performance of moving and enlightening music, dance, poetry, and special-guest speeches celebrating the African American experience and culture, following a community resource fair and reception.

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 4:00­­-6:00 PM the Black History Month event will commence with a community resource and networking fair with local education, health, housing, and volunteer resources, along with complimentary refreshments and beverages. At 6:00 PM Forest Lawn, in partnership with producer Charles Lane, will present a performance with a troupe of singers and dancers, a five-piece band, as well as distinguished speakers Anita Ortega and Marie Rogers. Dr. Brenda Threatt and Michael Ellington will narrate the evening festivities.

“Forest Lawn looks forward to celebrating Black History Month with inspiring performances that honor the strength and depth of African American culture,” says Rodolfo Saenz, Forest Lawn’s Senior Vice President, Marketing. “From the stories told by the stage performers to the craftspeople and community organizations who participate in the resource fair, this event will honor all aspects the African American experience.”

Forest Lawn’s Black History Month event takes place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 4:00-7:30 PM, inside the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection at Forest Lawn–Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Doors open at 4:00 PM for the resource fair and pre-show reception with refreshments, music, and prizes, and continues with a 6:30 PM curtain for the performance. Seating will begin at 6:00 PM and is available on a first come, first served basis; standing room only is anticipated. Admission and parking are FREE.

Forest Lawn Museum’s exhibition Narcissus Quagliata: Archetypes and Visions in Light and Glass will also be on view in the neighboring Forest Lawn Museum until 5:00 PM. It is the first retrospective exhibition devoted to Narcissus Quagliata, one of the most influential figures in glass art from the past 50 years. From technical advances in glass fusing, to radical stylistic innovations, Quagliata has redefined what it means to be a glass artist and has been instrumental in moving stained glass beyond ecclesiastical and domestic settings and into the realms of public art and avant-garde studio practices for contemporary fine art. Visit www.forestlawn.com for more information.

For additional information and media inquiries about the Black History Month event or Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries, please contact Tom Smith at 323.340.4742 or tsmith@forestlawn.com.

About Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries

For more than a century, Forest Lawn has been an integral part of Southern California. Since its founding, Forest Lawn has committed itself to providing outstanding service and beautiful environments for family outings, remembering loved ones and commemorating holidays. Forest Lawn’s locations in the Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties serve all faiths and cultures, and offer a wide range of celebrations and special events with competitively priced cremation and traditional funeral services throughout Southern California. Glendale – FD 656

About the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection

Located next to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection showcases the Crucifixion (195 ft. x 45 ft.), which is the largest painting in the Western United States. It was painted by Polish artist Jan Styka in the 1890s. The building also houses the Resurrection (70 ft. x 51 ft.), which was painted by American artist Robert Clark in 1965. Visitors can view the newly revamped 18-minute, documentary-style audiovisual program, which includes a new video and narration that tell the history of two colossal paintings and the unique building that Forest Lawn created to house them. The audiovisual program runs Tuesday–Sunday on the hour (10 AM-4 PM, closed at 1 PM for lunch). Closed occasionally for special events. For more details about the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, visit https://forestlawn.com/exhibits/the-hall-of-crucifixion-resurrection-2/.

Great Mausoleum visiting hours: Daily from 9:30 AM–4:15 PM

Admission and parking to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, and the Great Mausoleum are FREE.

For more information or to schedule a free group tour, please call 323.340.4782, email museum@forestlawn.com, or visit https://forestlawn.com/museum.

The Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at Forest Lawn—Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Blvd., Glendale, CA 91205. Please note, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at the top of the hill within Forest Lawn-Glendale. Please follow event signage. 

About Forest Lawn Museum

Forest Lawn Museum first opened in 1952 and is now comprised of three galleries and a gift shop. The renowned permanent collection of sculpture, stained glass windows, mosaics, and architecture is spread across Forest Lawn’s six Southern California locations. Forest Lawn’s founder, Dr. Hubert Eaton, wrote in his Builder’s Creed that our park should be “a place where artists study and sketch; where school teachers bring happy children to see the things they read of in books.” In that spirit, selections of Forest Lawn Museum’s permanent collection of photographs, paintings, and bronze and marble sculptures are on display in the museum’s front gallery. Forest Lawn Museum typically dedicates two galleries to world-class rotating exhibits, which focus on topics ranging from aerial photography to puppetry to stained glass.

Forest Lawn Museum is located adjacent to the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, which houses the Crucifixion, a 195-foot wide by 45-foot-high painting by Polish artist Jan Styka. Other notable pieces in Forest Lawn’s collection can be found in the Great Mausoleum, including the Last Supper stained glass window by artist Rosa Caselli-Moretti, the Poets’ Windows, and marble replicas of Michelangelo’s Moses and Pietà.

The Hijacking of Hip-Hop: Money Over Morals

By Jasmyne Cannick

Once upon a time a long time ago in a land not that far away, hip-hop was the voice of the streets. It was a movement, a message, and a megaphone for Black empowerment and communal struggle. Born from block parties and sound systems in the Bronx, it was raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically Black. It wasn’t just music, it was a blueprint for survival. But somewhere along the way, the cipher got hijacked by the almighty dollar, and now we’re left wondering: when did hip-hop trade its soul for a stack?

They Caught the Vapors

Let’s talk about some names—Soulja Boy, Rick Ross, Nelly, and the Doggfather himself, Snoop. These are the same artists who once rode waves of Black creativity, who stood on the shoulders of a community that built them up, only to later moonwalk into Donald Trump’s inaugural events like it was a VIP lounge. And yes, Black people have every right to critique that. These men owe their fame to the culture we created. The beats, the bars, the slang—none of it exists without us. But when the culture needed them to stand for something bigger than their bottom line, they cashed the check and danced anyway.

The hypocrisy is staggering. These Black hip-hop artists celebrating the election of Donald Trump is baffling enough, but the timing adds insult to injury. In Trump’s very first hours in office, the man they were hyping up wasted no time signing executive orders that directly harmed the same Black and Brown communities that built these artists’ careers, including his pardoning of leaders from extremist groups like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers—organizations tied to white supremacist ideologies and violent white-power movements. The communities that bought these artists’ albums, filled their concert venues, and turned them into icons deserved loyalty—not performances for a man who championed policies and alliances that screamed contempt for those same fans. It’s a betrayal that makes their actions not just tone-deaf but outright disgraceful.

And it must be mentioned that Snoop Dogg’s decision to perform at a Trump-related event directly contradicts his outspoken criticism of Trump in 2017. Back then, he didn’t mince words. He was vocal about rejecting Trump and everything he stood for, positioning himself as someone who wouldn’t sell out for any price. Fast forward to now, and his involvement in a Trump celebration feels like a complete 180, leaving fans questioning his authenticity and commitment to the principles he once preached.

That’s why we’re upset.

The Crossover

We’ve seen this coming for a while now. The slow but steady shift from hip-hop as a movement to hip-hop as a money-making machine has been happening for decades. It was only a matter of time before we hit this inevitable and embarrassing moment—seeing artists like Snoop, Nelly, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy performing at Trump inauguration events. This didn’t happen overnight–it’s the result of years of prioritizing profit over principles, where the culture that once stood for resistance and truth now bends to the highest bidder.

Let’s not sugarcoat it: Trump’s inauguration wasn’t some neutral gig. It was a stage built on policies and rhetoric that harm Black and Brown communities. To stand on it as a Black artist, pocket the money, and then retreat to your mansion feels like the ultimate betrayal. It’s the kind of betrayal that comes when money stops being a means to an end and becomes the entire purpose of existence.

And this isn’t just about a few performances–this has been an ongoing systemic shift. Today’s hip-hop lyrics have gone from rallying cries of resistance to open love letters to luxury. Rappers used to talk about surviving the struggle–now it’s all about thriving in excess. If it’s not sex or drugs, every other line brags about a Birkin bag, a private jet, or a stack of cash that’s apparently so heavy it’s a workout just to hold it.

It’s not just irritating–it’s downright toxic. When every verse worships wealth, it creates a culture where having money is more important than how you got it or what you do with it.

When asked what does it mean when a rapper is called a sellout, Soulja Boy told Genius, “Basically selling your soul, doing something that you wouldn’t normally do.”

Sadly, performing for a Trump inauguration event is right on brand for Soulja Boy. In his n-word and profanity-laced tirade on social media, he bragged about how Trump put money in his pocket while “Obama” and “Kamala” never called him . By his logic, the devil himself could show up with a check, and as long as he’s getting paid, Soulja Boy would gladly sell everyone out.

C.R.E.A.M.

Soulja Boy and artists like him have normalized moral bankruptcy as long as it comes with a seven-figure deposit. Meanwhile, the communities that gave hip-hop life are still struggling. The inequality that hip-hop once called out is still very much alive, but you’d never know it from scrolling through Instagram feeds full of Lambos and diamond chains.

The saddest part? The shift wasn’t inevitable. Hip-hop didn’t have to go this way. The genre’s pioneers built something that was powerful, authentic, and rooted in the idea of collective progress. Money was never the enemy, but it wasn’t the goal either—it was a tool. A means to uplift the community, to build something lasting. Somewhere along the line, that message got drowned out by the sound of clinking champagne glasses.

We’re not saying artists can’t make their money. We’re not saying success is a bad thing. But when the pursuit of wealth becomes the defining characteristic of a genre that was built on community, it’s time to pause and reflect.

The Message

Hip-hop is supposed to be bigger than flexing on the gram. It’s supposed to be about truth, resilience, and resistance. Those of us old enough to remember the history and evolution of hip-hop know this better than anyone. We remember when it was a lifeline, a mirror for the struggle, and a call to action—not just a showcase of wealth. But for younger generations, some of whom have only ever known this new iteration of hip-hop obsessed with money and status, it’s a different story.

So yes, folks have every right to question when the moves don’t align with the culture. It’s not just music—it’s our culture. And if we don’t hold it accountable, who will?

A member of hip-hop generation, Jasmyne Cannick is based in Los Angeles and is an award-winning journalist and political commentator who writes to challenge, critique, and hold the culture accountable?

By Joe W. Bowers Jr | California Black Media?? 

California Department of Finance Director Joe Stephenshaw, standing in for Gov. Gavin Newsom, presented the state’s $322.3 billion proposed budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year at a press briefing on Jan. 10.

The presentation, held at the Media Briefing Room of the Swing Space Building in Sacramento, began with Stephenshaw addressing the devastating wildfires sweeping through Southern California. He affirmed the state’s commitment to enhancing wildfire preparedness and resilience, emphasizing ongoing efforts to protect communities and natural resources.

“The budget I present to you today reflects a balanced approach, one that avoids new cuts to core programs while continuing investments in critical areas like wildfire preparedness, education, and economic resilience,” Stephenshaw stated.

Stephenshaw highlighted the administration’s progress in fiscal management, noting, “Thanks to the budget framework that the Governor proposed last May to not only balance the budget for the upcoming fiscal year but also ensure that our special fund for economic uncertainty was balanced for the next fiscal year, we really went a long way in moving California back onto some stable fiscal footing.”

Newsom officially sent the proposed budget to the Legislature, describing it as a balanced plan designed to maintain fiscal stability while continuing critical investments.

The Governor’s budget proposal projects a surplus of $363 million, alongside $17 billion in reserves, including $10.9 billion in the Rainy-Day Fund and an additional $4.5 billion in the Special Fund for Economic Uncertainties. However, the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) has expressed a more cautious outlook, estimating a $2 billion deficit, citing revenue volatility tied to capital gains and economic uncertainties.

The proposed budget includes savings from the elimination of 6,500 vacant government positions, generating $1.2 billion over two years. Additional operational efficiencies, such as reduced state travel budgets and IT system modernization, are expected to save $3.5 billion.

Proposition 98, which guarantees a minimum level of funding for TK-12 education and community colleges, is set at $118.9 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Overall, TK-12 education funding totals $137.1 billion, including $83.3 billion from the General Fund. This translates to per-pupil funding of $18,918 from Prop 98 and $24,764 when accounting for all funding sources.

The education budget includes a 2.43% cost-of-living adjustment for Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) to address rising costs. It allocates $2.4 billion in ongoing funding for supporting the full implementation of Universal Transitional Kindergarten, along with $1.5 billion to reduce student-to-adult ratios. Additionally, $8.5 billion is earmarked for school facility modernization, safety upgrades, and universal school meals.

Marshall Tuck, CEO of EdVoice, expressed optimism about the budget’s educational initiatives. “EdVoice is pleased to see the deep focus on literacy instruction and instructional materials in the Governor’s proposed budget, as reading is the most essential skill for future learning and opportunity,” Tuck said. “We must also ensure that teacher training in evidence-based literacy instruction is required for elementary school teachers.”

Higher education will receive $45.1 billion, with investments in equity-focused initiatives at UC, CSU, and community colleges. The proposal includes expanded financial aid through the Middle-Class Scholarship and $150 million to support teacher recruitment incentives, aimed at addressing persistent staffing shortages in public schools.

The budget introduces stricter accountability measures for homelessness funding, including enhanced oversight of the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program. Frequent reporting of expenditures and outcomes will be required to ensure effective use of funds. Investments also target affordable housing development, including funding for low-income housing tax credits and $100 million for encampment resolution efforts.

California’s persistent wildfire threat, underscored by the fires currently sweeping through Southern California, is addressed with $2.5 billion in prior wildfire funding and an additional $1.5 billion from the Climate Bond. These funds will support critical initiatives such as enhancing CAL FIRE’s capacity, deploying advanced firefighting technology, and implementing preparedness programs that utilize advanced detection and mapping tools to protect vulnerable communities. Additionally, the budget dedicates $200 million annually through 2028-29 for forest and fire prevention programs, including prescribed fire and fuel reduction projects, aimed at mitigating future wildfire risks.

The proposed budget includes programs like the California Competes program and workforce development initiatives that continue to support small businesses including Black Businesses and promote economic growth. The budget also maintains $1.6 billion in public safety funding, including $283.6 million in 2025-26 to enhance enforcement, prosecution, and accountability.

Stephenshaw explained that the budget aims to create opportunities and provide resources to help all Californians succeed, while focusing on the state’s commitment to equity and addressing critical needs. He pointed out challenges like possible Medicaid cuts and changes to immigration policies and emphasized working closely with the Legislature to refine the budget and tackle financial issues.

Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), stated, “We thank the Governor and Department of Finance staff for their work on this initial budget proposal. While the governor’s spending plan seeks to achieve fiscal responsibility, there is much to do in the way of addressing the economic inequality faced by our most vulnerable populations.” She added that the CLBC is committed to collaborating with legislative colleagues and the administration to safeguard and expand investments in underserved communities.

Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R – Yuba City) offered a sharp critique on the budget, particularly targeting Newsom’s economic policies. “Newsom is doubling down on the same failed programs that stuck Californians with record homelessness, soaring energy and housing costs, and one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation,” Gallagher stated. “The only new thing in this budget is a giveaway to the governor’s Hollywood donors and even higher taxes on small businesses.”

The proposed budget now heads to the Legislature for deliberation and potential adjustments before Newsom revises it in May. By law, the process must be completed, and the balanced budget signed by the end of June when the fiscal year ends.

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

On January 7, 2025, businessman, actor and popular media personality. Jason Lee – who is the CEO, host and owner of the popular media platform Hollywood Unlocked — was sworn into office as a Stockton City Councilmember, representing the city’s 6th District.

He will also serve as Vice Mayor.

Lee, a Stockton native, rose to prominence in the entertainment industry, after overcoming numerous disadvantages in his childhood, including abuse, poverty, homelessness, foster care and violence. Lee details some of these experiences in his memoir titled “God Must Have Forgotten About Me.”

Despite facing numerous setbacks as a young man, Lee says he has dedicated his life to serving others. He began his career in education and probation before transitioning to labor relations. In 2009, he became a Labor Representative for the California Nurses Association in Los Angeles, where he negotiated contracts for registered nurses in private hospitals.

During his time in LA, Lee connected with various influential figures in the entertainment industry and began documenting his experiences on a website he created. In 2015, he founded Hollywood Unlocked, which currently has 3.5 million followers on Instagram and 1.9 million on Facebook.

When Lee announced that he was expanding his focus and running to serve on the city council in his hometown, many in the political arena questioned his motives for running.

Lee recently spoke with California Black Media and shared what drove his decision, the strategy behind his successful campaign, and his plans as he takes office.

“For some, I am reduced to a blogger and a reality star who spills the tea,” said Lee.

“Thankfully they did that. And I was able to put my head down and focus on organizing a phenomenal campaign, finding like-minded people, getting Kevin Hart, Floyd Mayweather and other friends like Babyface, Cardi B and people who had a platform and money to pour into my campaign — and a slate of four candidates running for city council positions. They supported all four of us and we all won. So, now, for the first time ever, you have a slate of people who are all aligned.”

Lee says his motivation to run for office was first sparked by a tragedy at Stagg High School in Stockton, where he used to work and attended as a youth.

Last year, a 15-year-old student, Alicia Reynaga, was stabbed and killed by an intruder on the high school’s campus. After the tragedy, Lee returned home to offer emotional support to the students along with actress Tiffany Haddish. He also planned to work with the city to fund programming to support youth in the city but grew frustrated by the political posturing and red tape he encountered from city authorities at the time.

“Once I saw the politicking around that tragedy, I tried to find people to run. Nobody wanted to run; nobody believed anything could change. So, I called my executive team, moved everything around, and made the decision to run.”

Lee says his campaign was fueled by the memories and lessons of his experiences growing up in Stockton. endured. He realizes that many residents in his district are going through challenges similar to the ones he endured.

“I’m the face of everything they talk about. People politicize topics like homelessness, but you can’t talk to me about homelessness because I was homeless; you can’t talk to me about foster care or young people transitioning out of foster care because that was me; you can’t talk to me about gun violence and crime because not only was I a survivor of that but I watched my brother get murdered. I know what it takes to be able to navigate all of those experiences,” says Lee.

While in office, Lee wants to focus on issues like rent stabilization, police accountability and food deserts. He also plans to launch a voter registration education campaign to get younger and progressive thinkers involved in the political process.

“I ain’t in it to be a politician. I’m in it to be a public servant. On my day job, I may spill the tea, which, in my opinion, stands for the truth, trust, and transparency of my entertainment business. We’re going to spill the tea in Stockton, too. Truth, trust, and transparency.”

While Lee still plans to continue running his entertainment business, he understands his approach to his new position will need to be different from the branded personality the public now associates with his Hollywood Unlocked image.

“I can’t be as reckless in my delivery as I am sometimes over there, because real lives are impacted by the words that I choose over here, and the decisions that I make over here have a very significant impact to people who have entrusted me to and given me to help change what they’re experiencing,” Lee says.

“I take the obligation very seriously,” he added.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Keep Watch! Be on Guard, Stay Alert, and Pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen. [Luke 21:36; Mark 13:33-37].

Again, the Word of the Lord came unto me, saying, daughter of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: Therefore, hear a word from my mouth, and give them warning from me. [Ezekiel 3:17].

God gives a Summons –

Come near, you nations, and listen; pay attention, you, people! Let the earth hear, and all that is in it, the world, and all that comes out of it! [Isaiah 34:1]. I want you to know what’s going to happen. I want to tell you what the future holds. [Isaiah 1:2].

The Lord is angry with all nations; His wrath is on all their armies. [Isaiah 34:2]. He will totally destroy them; He will give them over to slaughter. Their slain will be thrown out, their dead bodies will stink; the mountains will be soaked with their blood. All the stars in the sky will be dissolved and the heavens rolled up like a scroll; and all the starry host will fall like withered leaves from the vine, like shriveled figs from the fig tree. [Isaiah 13:9; Isaiah 34:1-4; Mark 13:23].

God has had enough; His patience and forbearance exhausted [Matthew 24; Revelation chapters 6, 8-9, and 16-18; Hebrew 11:15; Joshua 6:21; 1 Samuel 15:3].

What you are witnessing on the world scene now, earthquakes, tropical cyclones, floods, volcanoes, droughts, forest fires, wildfire, hurricanes, eruptions, avalanches, heat waves, landslides, blizzards, dust storms, firestorms, hails, ice storms, sinkholes, thunderstorms, tornadoes and tsunamis, doesn’t even compare to what is coming. A day cruel both with wrath and raging anger, to make the land desolate, a horror of devastation [Isaiah 13:9].

Yes, I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish. [Genesis 6:17]. This is the plan determined for the whole world; this is the hand stretched out over all nations. For the Lord Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him? His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back? [Isaiah 14:26-27].

Wail, for the Day of the Lord, is near. [Isaiah 13:6].

If you have not repented, please do it NOW! The Day of the Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly at a time when you are least expecting it, and it will be too late then to decide to be saved. [1 Peter 4:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:3].

Don’t wait until it is too late! The judgments of God are in the land. [Matthew 24:36-44,1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; 2 Peter 3:10, Revelation 3:3; Revelation 22:12-21

I have told you everything ahead of time. [Mark 13:23]. Be vigilant in prayer [Ephesians 6:18-20] seeking God’s guidance as you discern the times. [Psalm 32:8; Isaiah 30:21]. For the Lord will arise to shake terribly the earth. You shall see troubles on all sides. Thousands of ships will be hurled into the depths of the sea. Navies will go down, and human lives will be sacrificed by millions. Fires will break out unexpectedly, and no human effort will be able to quench them. The palaces of earth will be swept away in the fury of the flames. Disasters by rail will become more and more frequent; confusion, collision, and death without a moment’s warning will occur.

Shouting to the Rooftop! Repent for the Kingdom of God is at Hand!

Please get under the umbrella of the Almighty God NOW! There is no time to lose. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecies of the eleventh of Daniel have almost reached their final fulfillment. [Daniel 11].

I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. [Acts 20:26-27]. God warns us.

Yet just as in the days of Noah and Lot, people continue to ‘eat and drink’ and live as if nothing is going to happen. [Luke 17:26-27].

I tell you; it will be more bearable for Sodom in the day of judgment than for them. [Matthew 11:20-24]. They will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might. [2 Thessalonians 1:8-9]

Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried out with a loud voice, saying to all the birds which fly in midheaven, Come, assemble for the great supper of God; in order that you may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders and the flesh of mighty men and the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them and the flesh of all men, both free men and slaves, and small and great. And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies, assembled to make war against Him who sat upon the horse, and against His army. And the beast was seized, and with him the false prophet who performed the signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image; and these two were thrown alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone. And the rest were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat upon the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh. [Revelation 6:12-17; Revelation 16:17-21; Revelation 19].

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media 

The Eaton Fire has left a devastating mark on Southern California, including the Black and Brown communities of Pasadena and Altadena, where homeowners are grappling with unimaginable loss.

Among them is Ruth Hopkins, publisher of The Pasadena Journal, the area’s only Black newspaper. Hopkins lost her family home and with it, over 60 years of archives documenting the rich history, culture, and lives of Black residents in the Altadena-Pasadena area. Her son, Jamal Dominique Hopkins has set up a GoFundMe campaign, for her and her grandson.

Six historically Black Churches in Pasadena and Altadena have been destroyed and the families of more than 200 of their members have lost their homes. Those churches are: Metropolitan Baptist Church (the Rev. Tyrone Skinner); Lifeline Fellowship Church (Bishop Charles Dorsey); Abounding Grace COGIC (the Rev. Thomas Burrell); Hillside Tabernacle City of Faith (the Rev. G. LaKeith Kennebrew); Community Bible Church of Greater Pasadena (the Rev. Jean Burch); and Morningstar Baptist Church (the Rev. W.H. Trotter).

The Eaton fire, fueled by unseasonably strong winds of up to 70 miles per hour, has consumed over 10,000 acres, damaged and destroyed an estimated 7,000 structures, and claimed at least 16 lives. Black and Brown families, many with deep generational ties to the area, are now among the thousands displaced.

So far 24 people have been confirmed dead in all of the fires ongoing in Southern California.

Historically, Altadena has had a significant African American middle-class community compared to other parts of California. Currently, its Black population is 17.9%. Despite redlining policies that restricted Black homeownership in much of California, African Americans in Altadena Meadows, an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, could secure loans to buy homes.

Jasmyne Cannick, an L.A.-based writer, media strategist and political commentator, released a list of Black families affected by the Eaton fire in Altadena and Pasadena. She also provided GoFundMe links the public can use to assist them.

“Those erratic wind gusts were throwing embers multiple miles ahead of the fire,” said Chad Augustin, Pasadena fire chief at a press conference. He said several firefighters from other places, including Sacramento and the state of Oregon, have come to the aid of the city.

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that President Biden has approved a state of emergency in California and over 14,500 personnel are actively responding to the fire.

“We are putting all available resources behind fighting these wildfires, including leveraging local and federal assets. California has thousands of boots on the ground working to combat these fires,” said Newsom.  “The state is leaving no stone unturned to protect California communities.”

For several days now, Southern California has seen major fires, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or CAL Fire. The Pacific Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires started on Tuesday. The Lidia and Sunset fires began on Wednesday, and the Kenneth Fire ignited on Thursday.  As of this report, the Lidia, Sunset, and Kenneth Fire are fully contained. The Hurst Fire is 89% contained. The Pacific Palisades Fire is 11% contained and the Eaton Fire is 27% contained.

Evacuation notices had been issued, but a number of people decided to stay and fight for their homes. Garden hoses and shovels are the only weapons that most citizens were able to find to fight back embers from the burning remains of their next-door neighbors’ homes.

The Eaton fire is the second largest fire currently burning in Southern California.

An Altadena resident, Bruce, who did not want to give his last name, was watching his mother’s home and said he was prepared to do what he could to keep the house from burning down. He understands the frustration that some people have with the lack of water or manpower, but said he understands everyone is stretched thin.

Bruce’s family has been in Altadena and Pasadena for decades now, he says, and he condolers many people in his neighborhood as part of his family.

“This is where we grew up at,” said Bruce. “It doesn’t even look the same anymore.”

Some Altadena residents like Bruce feel like the fire is a battle they are fighting on their own.

People stood on the roof of their homes, hoses in hand, dousing the rubble of their neighbors’ homes to prevent their own houses from suffering the same fate.

One man was in his neighbors’ yard with a hose, watering down a crumbling heap that was the remains of the house’s garage. The home had already been consumed by fire. An open gas line continued to spew a stream of blue flames; the heat from that leak could be felt several feet away.

This man declined to give his name but said that he was not willing to leave the damage yet. Eventually he was able to get some help from firefighters driving through and reporting on the status of the fire.

Haywood Micheal Ammons, a filmmaker and father of two boys, stayed behind to protect the only remaining structure on a property his family owns. Surrounding structures had burning gas leaks that could not be put out with water. Ammons and Kevin Bautista, another resident with a deep connection to the property, tried to use a hose to push back embers but there was no water.

Ammons managed to get firefighters to turn off the gas and put out hotspots.

The home remained intact, but the new additional unit built for his two sons and ex-wife is gone.

Ammons reflected on his relief and frustration.

“The damage is done,” he said.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

All twelve members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) have been assigned leadership roles in the State Senate and the State Assembly, according to separate statements issued by Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister).

On Jan. 3, McGuire announced that Sen. Akilah Weber-Pierson (D-San Diego), Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles), and Sen. Laura Richardson (D-San Pedro) are joining several other colleagues as committee heads and an officer of the 2025-2026 Senate Democratic Leadership Team.

“The State Senate is ready to move California forward. Incredibly proud to serve alongside these dynamic Senators, who reflect the best of the Golden State. Let’s go to work,” McGuire posted on Jan. 3 on the social media platform X.

On Dec. 27, Rivas announced his Assembly leadership team and the Chairs of all Assembly committees, including CLBC members: CLBC vice chair Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), Chair, Natural Resources Committee; Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), Chair, Transportation Committee; Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), Chair, Budget Human Services Committee; Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Tracy), Chair, Emergency Management Committee; Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland), Chair, Health Committee; Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D- Inglewood), Chair, Public Employment and Retirement Committee; Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), Chair, Revenue and Taxation Committee; and Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-San Diego), Assistant Majority Leader for Policy.

“Californians expect us to deliver practical solutions that improve everyday life, like building more housing for families and lowering energy costs,” Rivas said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the Assembly’s new leaders to chart a path forward that renews opportunity and innovation in our state.”

In the Senate, Richardson was named to the Democratic leadership as Assistant Majority Whip. Sen. Dave Cortese (D-San Jose), is the Majority Whip. As Assistant Majority Whip, Richardson helps the Majority Whip to manage monitor legislation and secure votes for bills.

Richardson will also serve as chairperson for the Senate Budget Subcommittee No. 5 on Corrections, Public Safety, Judiciary, Labor, and Transportation. Weber-Pierson will serve as chair of Budget Subcommittee No. 3 on Health and Human Services.

According to the State Legislative Process, Budget subcommittees hold hearings on items in the Governor’s budget during the spring, then again after the

May Revision. The subcommittees and their staffs examine each line item pertaining to their assigned area of the budget.

The Labor, Public Employment and Retirement (formerly the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee) standing committee for the California State Senate will be chaired by Smallwood-Cuevas. She also served in that leadership position during the 2023-2024 legislative session.

Bills are heard in Standing Committees which meet on a regular basis throughout the year.

For the first time in its 58-year-history, most of CLBC members are women. Nine out of its 12 current members are Black women.

Weber-Pierson, Smallwood-Cuevas, and Richardson were sworn in on Dec. 2, the first official day of the 2025-26 Regular Session, in the chambers of the State Senate by the Hon. Patricia Guerrero, Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court.

On Dec. 2, McGuire gaveled in the First Extraordinary Session called by Gov. Gavin Newsom to protect California values and fundamental rights from the incoming federal administration under Donald Trump.

Wilson, the former Chair of the CLBC, thanked Rivas for reappointing her Chair of the Transportation Committee.

“Grateful for your continued confidence and excited to deliver on building a sustainable, innovative, and equitable transportation future for California,” she posted on the social media platform Bluesky.

By Bo Tefu, Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Outgoing Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) expressed deep gratitude to her constituents and marked the end of her 26-year career in public service.

Lee, who is succeeded by Lateefah Simon, a civil rights and racial justice activist, praised people in her community for their support. She also highlighted her dedication to promoting peace, justice, and equity.

“Together, we have raised our voices and pushed the envelope for peace, justice and equity. It has been the honor of a lifetime to provide constituent services, deliver federal investments to my district, speak out, and often times be the only one to take tough votes against the tide. I have, and will continue to, fight for working families, the middle class, low income and poor people,” said Lee On her final day in Congress.

Throughout her tenure, Lee earned a reputation as a principled lawmaker, known for taking bold and sometimes unpopular stances. One of her defining moments came in 2001 when she was the sole member of Congress to vote against the Authorization for the Use of Military Force in response to the September 11 attacks, a decision that led to death threats but ultimately cemented her legacy of courage.

Lee’s leadership extended beyond her own district, where she fought for social justice, the rights of low-income communities, and global health initiatives. She was a key figure in pushing for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and was a vocal critic of the Hyde Amendment, which restricts federal funding for abortion services.

The Congresswoman also faced significant challenges in her career, including a failed Senate bid in 2024. Yet, Lee’s efforts have paved the way for greater representation, with more Black women now elected to Congress. She worked closely with organizations like Representation Matters to encourage more women of color to run for office.

Lee says she looks to the future confident that the next generation of leaders will continue her unfinished work, particularly on issues like military force and reproductive rights.

By Joe W. Bowers Jr, | California Black Media

On January 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom will present his 2026 budget to the Legislature.

On January 6, he previewed budget highlights while receiving the North San Joaquin Valley’s regional economic plan, a part of California’s broader Jobs First Economic Blueprint aimed at driving local and statewide development.

The proposed $322.2 billion budget, including $228.9 billion in general fund spending, addresses a $2 billion deficit that Newsom is required to balance under state law. The Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) notes that while $16.5 billion in additional revenue from a strong economy, stock market gains, and higher tax receipts provides flexibility, long-term structural challenges persist. Spending growth, projected at 5.8% annually, continues to outpace revenue growth of 4%, with deficits potentially reaching $30 billion by 2028-29 without adjustments.

To ensure fiscal stability, Newsom plans to save $1.2 billion over two years by eliminating 6,500 state jobs and cutting $3.5 billion through operational efficiencies like reduced travel and IT modernizations. Despite these measures, Newsom assured there will be no cuts to core programs. Temporary revenue boosts, including $7 billion from stock market-linked income taxes, offer short-term relief but are not sustainable, making California’s $17 billion rainy-day fund a critical tool for managing future fiscal pressures.

This budget will incorporate strategies discussed during a recent special legislative session convened to prepare for potential conflicts with the incoming Trump administration and to safeguard critical state programs against federal interference or defunding.

During the Dec. 2 special legislative session, lawmakers introduced SBX-1 authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), which allocates $25 million to the California Department of Justice to cover litigation costs for defending state policies against federal challenges. These funds will support Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office in lawsuits targeting federal actions on reproductive rights, zero-emission vehicle standards, and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. An additional $10 million is earmarked for county and city legal departments to defend local initiatives.

The budget continues investments in education, healthcare, housing, and economic growth.

In the 2025-26 budget, Proposition 98 funding for K-12 schools and community colleges increases by $1.5 billion, reaching $116.8 billion, with per-pupil spending rising to a record $23,723. Of this amount, $2.8 billion will be available for new commitments, reflecting forecasts for growth and a 2.46% statutory cost-of-living adjustment. Initiatives such as Universal Transitional Kindergarten, expanded after-school and summer programs, and Universal School Meals are expected to strengthen educational outcomes.

Despite this funding boost, inequities persist in educational outcomes for Black students, who face suspension rates nearly three times higher than their peers and lower graduation rates. Discretionary funds could support programs aimed at addressing these disparities, including investments in teacher training, mental health services, and restorative justice initiatives.? In addition, Newsom will fund programs addressing literacy gaps, such as dyslexia screening and high-dose tutoring.

California’s higher education system is expected to benefit from increased funding to support affordability and access across its community colleges, California State University, and University of California systems. The budget will likely emphasize financial aid expansion, enrollment growth for underserved groups, and infrastructure improvements, while aligning educational programs with workforce needs to ensure graduates are prepared to fill existing gaps in the job market.

California’s housing crisis continues to disproportionately affect Black residents. Although Black Californians make up nearly 6% of the state’s population, they represent roughly 50% of its unsheltered homeless population. As of 2024, California’s homeless population exceeded 180,000, reflecting a 31% increase since 2007??.

High rental costs, averaging $2,225 per month for a two-bedroom apartment statewide, contribute to housing instability. The budget is expected to include funding for affordable housing construction, homelessness prevention programs, and emergency rental assistance. However, long-term solutions such as increased funding for affordable housing developments and tenant protections remain critical.

Medi-Cal, which serves over 14 million Californians or about one-third of the state’s population, remains a critical focus area for the budget. With federal funding accounting for 64.4% of Medi-Cal’s budget, potential changes under the Trump administration could pose risks. The state has historically relied on reserves to stabilize Medi-Cal programs during times of uncertainty. Proposals expected in the 2026 budget include expanding access to mental health services, addressing maternal and infant health disparities in Black communities, and increasing funding for community clinics in underserved areas.

Additionally, the budget will likely prioritize environmental justice initiatives aimed at improving air quality and providing safe drinking water in underserved communities, addressing longstanding health and environmental disparities. Public transportation improvements are expected to receive attention as well, enhancing accessibility and economic mobility in Black and low-income communities.

Economic recovery poses significant challenges for Black Californians, who face an unemployment rate of 6.7%, significantly higher than the 3.4% rate for White and Asian individuals and the 5.9% rate for Hispanic or Latino individuals. These disparities underscore the need for workforce development programs, including apprenticeships, small business grants, and enforcement against wage theft.

The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) is anticipated to play an active role in budget negotiations. Historically, the caucus has championed policies that address disparities in education, housing, and healthcare impacting Black Californians.

In the 2026 budget cycle, the CLBC is expected to prioritize equitable distribution of Proposition 98 funds, expanded allocations for affordable housing, and targeted healthcare initiatives to address disparities in underserved communities. With $3.7 billion in the Proposition 98 reserve, discussions may focus on ensuring these funds address inequities affecting Black Californians.

Key dates in the budget process include May 14, when the Governor presents an updated version of the budget incorporating amended revenue forecasts and adjustments. June 15 is the deadline for the final budget passage.

Newsom’s 2026 budget will outline California’s approach to addressing systemic inequities while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The active involvement of stakeholders, including the CLBC, will be pivotal in shaping the state’s response to critical issues impacting Black Californians.