Nitya Raman Faces Backlash in Silver Lake
Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nitya Raman is currently under scrutiny in her own neighborhood.
Just days after a homeless encampment was set up near her Silver Lake residence, new flyers criticizing Raman’s history with homelessness and her controversial barbecue proposal have surfaced in the area.
These flyers, displayed on telephone poles and public furniture, feature blunt messages like “No BBQ. Vote Raman for Mayor” and “Keep LA F—ked.”
This campaign is run by Safe Cities USA, which operates independently of any mayoral candidates. The group claims to have support from residents and business owners who are unhappy with the current state of the city.
The flyers specifically target Raman’s management of homelessness, public safety, and related quality of life issues.
“We feel that Basu and Raman should not be able to spread lies with unverifiable facts and figures,” the group expressed in a statement. “I have a responsibility to stand up for my family and my company. I can’t just sit back and watch them rob us.”
Safe Cities USA argues that the campaign reflects a growing discontent among residents who feel Los Angeles is overwhelmed with challenges like homelessness, addiction, and crime.
“People and businesses are fed up,” the statement continued. “Finally, we have a mayoral candidate who is passionate and knowledgeable enough to run our city sensibly.”
A recent incident has added fuel to the fire. Activists staged a mock encampment in front of Raman’s home over Memorial Day weekend, which quickly gained traction online. Raman later commented on the event during a podcast, expressing relief that her children didn’t see it and suggesting that her campaign should focus on issues like bike lanes and transit.
Her remarks went viral, with some commenters pointing out a perceived inconsistency—how she appears concerned about her children when it comes to homelessness near schools and parks.
Critics have noted that, throughout her political journey, Raman has faced backlash for her limited approach to regulating homeless encampments. A video from the protest showed people cooking on barbecues, further emphasizing the unfolding drama.
The flyers also revisit a previous political misstep when Raman proposed restrictions on backyard barbecues and open flames during fire hazard warnings. This suggestion led to significant public outcry and was eventually withdrawn by fellow council member Monica Rodriguez.
Another flyer appealed directly to parents with the message, “Moms of Pratt, please save our children.”
Organizers behind the flyer campaign emphasize that their concerns extend beyond politics.
“We’re genuinely worried about the safety of our families and neighbors,” their statement reads. “If Los Angeles continues down this troubling path, it could lead to job loss for tenants and employees, business closures, and struggles for people trying to pay their rent.”
