Anniversary of Pacific Palisades Wildfires to See Large Gathering
As the one-year mark approaches since the devastating wildfires in Pacific Palisades, thousands of survivors are expected to come together to express their concerns and seek accountability from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. However, there’s no confirmation yet that either official will attend to respond to the community’s questions.
Currently, over 1,000 residents have registered for an event titled “They Let Us Burn!” scheduled for January 7. Organizers emphasize that the demonstration aims to hold the administrations of Newsom and Bass accountable for their handling of the situation.
In a statement posted on Instagram, a group representative criticized the government, saying, “They are burning us with gross negligence, mismanagement, and a lack of infrastructure.” The post highlights ongoing frustrations about a perceived lack of transparency and accountability.
Invitations have been sent to both officials, but as of Saturday, there hasn’t been a response from Mayor Bass, nor has Governor Newsom confirmed his participation. According to a spokesperson, the governor will be in Los Angeles next week to meet with fire survivors but has not indicated whether he will join the rally.
Event organizer Jeremy Padawer, who lost his home and neighborhood to the fire, described the gathering as a rally and protest, stressing the need to confront those in power. He runs a website dedicated to documenting the community’s slow recovery, which remains a landscape of vacant lots and ruins.
Padawer asserts that the widespread destruction was not merely due to natural factors but stems from systemic failures and governmental shortcomings. His website reveals concerning details—fire hydrants were not inspected, a significant portion of fire trucks were inoperable, and local reservoirs were dry at a time when fire protection was critically needed.
It has been noted that Mayor Bass was in Africa when the fire broke out, and the deputy mayor responsible for fire and police was suspended amid a federal investigation for allegedly making a false bomb threat to avoid a meeting.
Reports indicate that both the Palisades fire and another wildfire in Altadena are central to ongoing lawsuits that claim negligence on the part of fire officials. Accusations include cover-ups regarding mistakes made during the incidents.
An investigation into the fire’s aftermath revealed an attempt by the Los Angeles Fire Department leadership to conceal details, particularly concerning an after-action report that could elucidate the reasons behind the devastation.
Residents criticize officials for their lack of answers regarding resource shortages and inadequate preparation before the fire. Padawer pointed out that mismanagement has only worsened, leaving families displaced and uncertain about any timeline for returning to what was once a vibrant community.
“People are underinsured,” said Jessica Rogers, another fire survivor. She is organizing a memorial event to honor those who lost their lives and to appreciate individuals who have contributed to rebuilding efforts. As the community continues to navigate the aftermath, many find themselves struggling with the emotional and financial toll of the disaster.
Notably, while the fires claimed dozens of lives and destroyed thousands of structures, a recent study suggests that the actual death toll may be significantly underestimated, possibly reaching as high as 400.
Rogers emphasized that while the flames may be out, the challenges persist in the form of paperwork, debt, and fear of eviction. Both she and Padawer reject the notion that the Palisades is solely a wealthy area filled with celebrities, pointing out the hard-working individuals who call it home.
“This community is deeply traumatized,” Rogers said, highlighting the overlapping losses residents face—from homes to stability, and even their sense of identity.
