As someone with a background in working for low-income communities of color and expertise in Urban Planning and Public Policy, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact that systemic inequalities and structural injustices have on these communities. My experiences have driven me to run for office and fight for change at the local level.

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and finding solutions to the challenges they face. As a result, I have gained extensive experience in urban planning, community development, and public policy, allowing me to understand the complex issues that these communities face and the best approaches to addressing them.

My passion for social justice and commitment to improving the lives of those in low-income communities of color have led me to run for office. I believe that it is my duty to use my skills, knowledge, and experience to help create a more just and equitable society. As a city council member, I will use my background and expertise to promote policies and initiatives that empower these communities and address the root causes of systemic inequalities.

I am committed to being a voice for change and an advocate for those who have been marginalized for too long. My goal is to work collaboratively with community members and other elected officials to create lasting positive change in our city and beyond.

Building trust in city leadership requires a combination of transparent and accountable decision-making processes, effective communication, and consistent actions that align with the needs and interests of the community. Here are some steps that can be taken to build trust in city leadership:

a)     Open and transparent decision-making: City leaders should be transparent in their decision-making processes, providing clear explanations for their actions and allowing for public input and engagement.

b)    Effective communication: City leaders should communicate regularly and effectively with the community, providing updates on important issues and progress on key initiatives. They should also be accessible and responsive to the needs and concerns of the community.

c)     Community engagement: City leaders should actively seek out and listen to the perspectives and opinions of the community and involve them in decision-making processes wherever possible.

d)    Responsiveness and accountability: City leaders should be responsive to the needs and concerns of the community and be held accountable for their actions and decisions. This can be achieved through regular performance evaluations, open and transparent budget processes, and regular opportunities for the public to provide feedback.

e)     Delivery on promises: City leaders should work to deliver on their promises and commitments, demonstrating to the community that they are trustworthy and committed to serving their needs.

f)      Collaboration with community organizations: City leaders should work in partnership with community organizations and stakeholders to address common challenges and achieve shared goals. This can help build trust and foster a sense of shared responsibility for the well-being of the community.

Overall, building trust in city leadership requires a consistent and sustained effort to listen to the needs and perspectives of the community, be transparent and accountable in decision-making, and deliver on promises and commitments

African Americans have been facing several challenges in Los Angeles, including displacement and gentrification, which have led to a decline in their population in some parts of the city, including Council District 6. The issue of African Americans leaving Los Angeles, also known as "Black flight," is a complex and multi-faceted issue that has been driven by a variety of factors, including rising housing costs, limited economic opportunities, and discrimination.

In addition to the challenges of affording to house, African Americans in Los Angeles also face unequal access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. This can make it difficult for them to thrive and succeed in the city, leading many to leave in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

It's important for city leaders to address these issues and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable Los Angeles for all its residents, including African Americans. This can include implementing policies and programs that promote affordable housing, job training and placement, and access to quality education and healthcare.

There are several steps that can be taken to address and combat racism against BIPOC individuals and communities, including:

a)     Education and Awareness: Increasing public awareness and understanding of the impacts of racism is a crucial first step. This can include educating the public on the history of systemic and institutional racism and its ongoing effects on BIPOC communities.

b)    Diversifying Representation: Increasing diversity in leadership positions can help ensure that the perspectives and needs of BIPOC communities are adequately represented and addressed.

c)     Addressing Systemic Racism: Addressing systemic racism involves examining and changing the policies, practices, and structures that perpetuate racial inequality. This can include implementing fair housing policies, reforming the criminal justice system, and promoting equal access to education and healthcare.

d)    Promoting Cultural Competency: Providing training and resources for individuals and organizations to promote cultural competency and understanding can help reduce instances of individual acts of racism and prejudice.

e)     Supporting BIPOC-Led Organizations: Supporting BIPOC-led organizations and initiatives that work to address and combat racism can help ensure that the needs and perspectives of BIPOC communities are adequately represented and addressed.

It is important to note that addressing and combating racism is a long-term process that requires sustained effort and collaboration between individuals, communities, and institutions.

Racism can affect any racial or ethnic group, including Latinx individuals. Racism can take many forms and can be perpetuated by individuals of any race or ethnicity. However, it is important to acknowledge that Latinx individuals can also be victims of racism and discrimination and that racism is a complex and multifaceted issue that cannot be attributed to any one group or community.

Addressing and combating racism requires a collective effort and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals and communities, regardless of race or ethnicity. This can involve education and awareness, promoting cultural competency and understanding, and working towards creating systemic change that addresses the root causes of racism and discrimination.

When faced with instances of discrimination or racism, it is important to take action to address the behavior and promote understanding and equality. Here are some steps that can be taken:

a)     Speak out: If you witness or experience discrimination or racism, it is important to speak out against it. This can involve directly addressing the individual or individuals responsible for the behavior, or reporting it to the appropriate authorities if it is a more serious issue.

b)    Educate: Educating others on the impacts of discrimination and racism can help raise awareness and promote understanding. This can involve sharing information, resources, and personal experiences with others.

c)     Build bridges: Building bridges and forming alliances with individuals and communities from different racial and ethnic backgrounds can help promote understanding and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.

d)    Support organizations: Supporting organizations and initiatives that work to address and combat discrimination and racism can help ensure that the needs and perspectives of marginalized communities are adequately represented and addressed.

It is important to approach these situations with empathy, respect, and an openness to learning and understanding. Addressing and combating discrimination and racism is a long-term process that requires sustained effort and collaboration between individuals, communities, and institutions. This can be paid for by redirecting funds from the police.

Below is my philosophy on Police Defunding and Police Abolition:

The issue of police reform and abolition also has theological implications, as religious communities and faith leaders have a long history of advocating for justice and human dignity.

In the Christian tradition, for example, the teachings of Jesus emphasize love, compassion, and justice for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. This perspective calls for an end to systemic violence and oppression, and for the creation of a world where everyone can flourish and thrive.

Similarly, in the Islamic tradition, the concept of justice (al-Adl) is central to the faith, and calls for the protection of the rights of all people, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized. This perspective calls for a just and equitable society, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

For many religious communities and faith leaders, the push for police reform and abolition is an extension of these core values, as they believe that the current policing system perpetuates violence, oppression, and systemic discrimination, particularly against communities of color.

In addition to the theological perspectives, the issue of police reform and abolition also has spiritual implications in terms of spiritual capital. Spiritual capital refers to the non-material resources, values, beliefs, and cultural heritage that shape individual and collective identities, behaviors, and relationships.

For many communities of color, the experience of police brutality and systemic violence has a profound impact on their spiritual capital, as it erodes trust, undermines social cohesion, and disrupts the spiritual foundations of their communities.

On the other hand, the push for police reform and abolition can serve as a source of spiritual capital, as it brings people together, fosters hope, and helps to restore a sense of justice and dignity in communities that have been impacted by systemic violence and oppression.

The role of faith communities and spiritual leaders in this movement is crucial, as they can provide a spiritual anchor for communities, and offer a sense of hope and healing for those who have been affected by police brutality and violence.

Moving from Police Reform to Police Abolition: The Need for a Radically Different Approach to Public Safety

The widespread protests against police brutality and racial injustice that took place in the wake of George Floyd's murder in 2020 have brought the issue of police reform to the forefront of public discourse. While there has been some progress in terms of police accountability and transparency, it has become increasingly clear that reform efforts are insufficient in addressing the systemic issues that underlie police violence. As such, a growing number of activists, scholars, and community members are advocating for the abolition of policing as it currently exists and the creation of alternative models of public safety.

The problems with police reform are numerous and well-documented. Police departments are often resistant to change, and even when reforms are implemented, they are often not adequately enforced. Additionally, reforms tend to focus on fixing individual behaviors and practices, rather than addressing the root causes of police violence. This approach has led to a patchwork of reforms that are inconsistent across departments, insufficient in scope, and ultimately ineffective in reducing the use of excessive force and instances of police brutality.

Moreover, the current system of policing is deeply rooted in systems of oppression, including white supremacy, capitalism, and the prison-industrial complex. As a result, any reforms aimed at addressing police violence must also address these larger systemic issues. This means fundamentally rethinking the role of police in society and envisioning new models of public safety that prioritize community-led solutions and restorative justice.

Police abolition is not a new concept. The abolitionist movement has its roots in the anti-slavery movement of the 19th century, and the same principles that guided that movement can be applied to the issue of policing today. The goal of police abolition is to create a society in which public safety is achieved through community-led initiatives and restorative justice practices, rather than through the threat of force and punishment. This requires a fundamental shift in the way we think about crime and justice, moving away from a punishment-based model and towards a model that prioritizes rehabilitation, healing, and community building.

Of course, this is not a simple or immediate process. Abolishing the police will require a significant investment of resources and political will, as well as a deep commitment to community-led solutions. It will also require a recognition of the fact that police departments are not the only means of achieving public safety, and that there are alternative approaches that have been shown to be more effective and less harmful.

In conclusion, the current approach to police reform is inadequate in addressing the root causes of police violence. A more radical approach is necessary, one that seeks to abolish policing as it currently exists and replace it with alternative models of public safety that prioritize community-led initiatives and restorative justice. This will require a significant investment of resources, political will, and a deep commitment to systemic change, but the outcome will be a safer, more just society for all.Top of FormBottom of Form

There is no single solution to homelessness, as the causes and experiences of homelessness are diverse and complex. However, there are a few approaches that can help to prevent and reduce homelessness.

Overall, a comprehensive and collaborative approach is needed to effectively address homelessness. This should involve government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector working together to develop and implement solutions:

a)     Inclusionary zoning: This policy requires developers to include a certain percentage of affordable housing units in new developments. This can help to increase the supply of affordable housing and prevent homelessness.

b)    Access to services: Providing access to health, social, and employment services near affordable housing can help to support individuals experiencing homelessness and prevent them from becoming homeless again.

c)     Mixed-income housing: Encouraging the development of mixed-income housing, where affordable units are integrated with market-rate units, can help to reduce the stigma associated with affordable housing and create more inclusive communities.

d)    Adaptive reuse: The conversion of abandoned or underutilized buildings into affordable housing can help to increase the supply of affordable housing and revitalize neglected areas.

e)     Transit-oriented development: Encouraging development near public transportation hubs can increase access to jobs, services, and affordable housing, making it easier for individuals experiencing homelessness to find and maintain housing.

f)      Homelessness impact analysis: Conducting a homelessness impact analysis as part of the urban planning process can help to identify potential impacts of new development on homelessness and guide decision-making to prevent and reduce homelessness.

g)    Collaboration: Building partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and community organizations can help to ensure that resources are effectively used to address homelessness and that the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness are addressed in a comprehensive and holistic manner.

h)     Universal Guaranteed Income and most recently Reparations:

Universal Guaranteed Income (UGI) is a proposed policy that would provide every citizen with a basic income, regardless of their employment status or financial situation. The idea behind UGI is to provide a safety net for those in need and to reduce poverty. It's important to note that there is no universally agreed upon definition of UGI, and the specifics of the policy can vary widely depending on the proposal.

Reparations, on the other hand, are payments made to individuals or groups who have been wronged or suffered harm, usually because of historic injustices such as slavery, colonization, or discrimination. The goal of reparations is to address the lingering effects of these injustices and to provide compensation for the harm that has been done.

Both UGI and reparations are controversial topics and have been the subject of much debate and discussion. Proponents of UGI argue that it would reduce poverty, provide a safety net for those in need, and stimulate the economy, while opponents argue that it would be too expensive and discourage work. Proponents of reparations argue that it would provide long-overdue compensation for historic injustices, while opponents argue that it would be difficult to determine who should receive reparations and how much they should receive.

These are just a few examples of urban planning approaches that can help address homelessness. The specific approaches used will depend on the local context and the needs of the community.

City leaders play an important role in promoting environmental justice and ensuring that all communities have access to a clean and healthy environment, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Here are some ways that city leaders can fight for environmental justice:

a)     Address environmental hazards: City leaders should identify and address environmental hazards, such as toxic waste sites, contaminated water sources, and air pollution, in communities that are disproportionately affected by environmental harm. This can involve working with local organizations and stakeholders to identify solutions and investing in infrastructure and programs to mitigate environmental hazards.

b)    Promote sustainable development: City leaders should promote sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental protection and ensures that the benefits and costs of development are distributed equitably. This can involve investing in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and sustainable transportation systems, and working with local businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

c)     Engage with marginalized communities: City leaders should engage with marginalized communities, including low-income communities and communities of color, to understand their perspectives and needs, and to involve them in decision-making processes related to the environment. This can help to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed.

d)    Implement environmental policies: City leaders should implement strong environmental policies and regulations that protect the health and well-being of all residents and address the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities. This can include policies to reduce air and water pollution, promote sustainable transportation, and conserve natural resources.

e)     Provide education and resources: City leaders should provide education and resources to help communities understand the environmental risks they face and the actions they can take to protect themselves and their families. This can involve working with schools and community organizations to provide environmental education and training programs and providing resources such as community gardens and green spaces for recreation.

f)      Collaborate with other stakeholders: City leaders should collaborate with other stakeholders, including state and federal agencies, environmental organizations, and private businesses, to address environmental justice challenges and to promote sustainable and equitable development.

By taking these steps, city leaders can work to ensure that all communities have access to a clean and healthy environment and that the benefits and costs of development are shared equitably.

Improving public transportation is an important step for cities looking to enhance mobility and reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some ways that a city can improve its public transportation system:

a)     Invest in infrastructure: Investing in new and improved public transportation infrastructure is essential for providing reliable and efficient service to riders. This can include investments in bus and rail systems, as well as in bike lanes, sidewalks, and other forms of active transportation.

b)    Enhance service: Cities can improve public transportation by enhancing existing services and adding new routes to better serve areas that are currently underserved. This can involve adding more frequent service, longer operating hours, and more convenient connections to other modes of transportation.

c)     Encourage use: Cities can encourage more people to use public transportation by offering affordable fares, providing real-time information about arrivals and departures, and making the experience more convenient and comfortable for riders.

d)    Integrate with other modes of transportation: Cities can improve public transportation by integrating it with other modes of transportation, such as bike-share systems and ride-hailing services, to create a more seamless and convenient transportation network for riders.

e)     Promote sustainable transportation: Cities can promote sustainable transportation by investing in electric and low-emission public transportation vehicles, and incorporating sustainable transportation options into their transportation planning processes.

f)      Collaborate with regional partners: Cities can work with regional partners, such as neighboring cities and regional transportation agencies, to coordinate transportation planning and investment, and to create a more seamless and integrated public transportation system.

By taking these steps, cities can improve their public transportation systems, providing better and more convenient service to riders and helping to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.

As a city council candidate, it's important to acknowledge and address the diverse needs and perspectives of all the communities you seek to serve. This includes African Americans, Latinos, Armenians, and other groups that make up the fabric of your city.

a)     African Americans: Can propose initiatives to address the disparities faced by African American residents in areas such as education, employment, and health. You may also support programs to help African American businesses grow and thrive and to preserve the cultural heritage of the African American community.

b)    Latinos: Can propose initiatives to address the unique challenges faced by Latino residents, such as access to affordable housing, quality health care, and education. You may also support programs to help new immigrants integrate into the community and to preserve the cultural heritage of the Latino community.

c)     Armenians: Can propose initiatives to address the concerns of the Armenian community, such as preserving the Armenian cultural heritage and promoting Armenian-owned businesses. You may also support programs to help the Armenian community participate in local government and engage in community activities.

These are just a few examples of how I might address the concerns of different communities. It's important to listen to the needs and perspectives of all the communities you seek to serve and to work to create a platform that reflects their concerns and aspirations.

Campaign fundraising is an essential aspect of any political campaign, as it provides the resources needed to reach voters, communicate your message, and run an effective campaign. Here are some strategies that can be effective in raising funds for a political campaign:

a)     Build a strong donor network: Building a strong donor network is critical to the success of any campaign fundraising effort. This can involve reaching out to friends, family, and community leaders, as well as attending fundraising events and meeting with potential donors.

b)    Utilize digital tools: Utilizing digital tools such as email, social media, and crowdfunding platforms can be effective in reaching a larger audience and raising funds from a broader range of supporters.

c)     Hosting fundraising events: Hosting fundraising events such as dinners, receptions, and other gatherings can be an effective way to engage with donors and raise funds for your campaign. These events can range from small, intimate gatherings to large-scale events that bring together a wider network of supporters.

d)    Appeal to small donors: small donations from a large number of supporters can add up quickly and can be an important source of funding for your campaign. Utilize digital tools to reach many small donors and encourage supporters to make recurring contributions to your campaign.

e)     Engage with political action committees (PACs): Political action committees (PACs) can be an important source of funding for political campaigns and can provide support for your campaign by making contributions, endorsing your candidacy, and providing other forms of support.

f)      Network with local businesses: Engaging with local businesses, such as chambers of commerce, trade associations, and business groups, can help to raise awareness of your campaign and provide important support, both financially and through in-kind contributions.

g)    I will not accept money from the police or those who refuse to put people over politics.

By taking these steps and developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy, campaigns can raise the funds they need to run an effective and successful campaign.

City leaders also need to interface effectively with their constituents in order to build trust and earn their support. Here are some strategies that city leaders can use to interface with their constituents:

a)     Hold town hall meetings: Holding town hall meetings is an effective way for city leaders to connect with constituents and listen to their concerns and opinions. These events provide an opportunity for constituents to ask questions and engage in dialogue with the city leader.

b)    Attend community events: Attending community events, such as festivals, fairs, and local gatherings, is an effective way for city leaders to meet and engage with constituents. These events provide an opportunity for city leaders to share their vision and message with a wider audience.

c)     Utilize digital tools: Utilizing digital tools such as social media, email, and video conferencing can be an effective way for city leaders to connect with constituents and share their messages. Digital tools can also be used to gather feedback and engage in dialogue with constituents.

d)    Offer public office hours: Offering public office hours is an effective way for city leaders to meet with constituents and listen to their concerns. This type of open and accessible interaction can help to build trust and support among constituents.

e)     Partner with community organizations: Partnering with local community organizations, such as neighborhood associations, non-profits, and advocacy groups, can be an effective way for city leaders to engage with constituents and build relationships.

f)      Conduct surveys and gather feedback: Conducting surveys and gathering feedback from constituents can be an effective way for city leaders to understand the needs and concerns of their constituents. This type of data-driven approach can help city leaders to make informed decisions and respond to the needs of the community.

By taking these steps, city leaders can interface effectively with their constituents, build relationships, and earn their support. It's important for city leaders to listen to the needs and concerns of their constituents and to be responsive to their needs, to build a strong relationship with the community.

People are my favorite.  I also enjoy the sense of community in the neighborhood, such as getting to know neighbors and feeling a sense of belonging. I appreciate the convenient location of the neighborhood, close to amenities and services. Additionally, I enjoy the parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities in the neighborhood, which provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Other factors to enjoy about the neighborhood include the architecture, the history and culture, the local businesses, the schools and educational opportunities, and the overall safety and security of the area.

Ultimately, everyone's favorite thing about their neighborhood will be different, depending on their personal values, priorities, and experiences.