The Great Resistance Has Begun Officials Unite Against Trump Policies
By Veronica Mackey
It has been a little over a week since Donald Trump was declared the winner in the U.S. presidential election. But Trump is wasting no time naming members of his new cabinet. Likewise, Democrats and some Republicans are preparing for the Great Resistance. Democratic Governors in California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, Washington State and Massachusetts are among officials vying to protect constituents against Trumpian policies.
Abortion, environmental laws, and immigration are among the biggest issues.
On Wednesday, Colorado Governor Jared Polls told Reuters he is the co-chair of a coalition of mostly Democratic-led states that will fight back against the Republican PresidentElect.
“We founded (the group) because we know that simple hope alone won’t save our democracy,” Polis said on a conference call announcing the group.
“We need to work together, especially at the state level, to protect and strengthen it.” Polls formed Governors Safeguarding Democracy, a non-
partisan group, with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Neither Pritzger nor Polls
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Art is Taking Over Inglewood
This past weekend, Inglewood was alive with artistic energy as the city hosted the 15th Annual Inglewood Open Studios Art Walk. This year’s event, marking a milestone anniversary, showcased the diverse talents of over 60 local artists and art spaces across Inglewood, giving residents and visitors alike a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant arts community.
Renée Fox, artist and co-founder of Inglewood Open Studios, expressed pride in the growth and impact of the annual event. “This year’s theme celebrates our 15th anniversary—a
huge milestone,” Fox said, highlighting
new participants such as Black House
LA, a fresh residency space for artists in Los Angeles. Fox also mentioned the introduction of a student art show at the Inglewood Public Library, showcasing the commitment to bringing art to local youth and expanding community reach. “IOS has wheels now,” she said optimistically. “I hope to see it grow with more grants, government funding, and educational initiatives.”
One of the standout showcases was “Fotos y Recuerdos,” curated by local brand designer and graffiti artist Jorge ‘Thriller’ Gómez, who has dedicated himself to uplifting young creatives
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Inglewood Today News
Open Studios Celebrates 15 Years of Creativity and Community
Publisher’s Message
Let’s Honor Our Veterans with A Shot at Business Ownership
By Willie Brown
This week, we honored our veterans for their dedicated military service. There is no greater sacrifice than risking one’s life to protect our country. But I feel not enough attention is given to what happens after vets return to civilian life.
We have all heard the horror stories—and some of us have lived them—of veterans unable to find employment or being so physically and mentally disabled that they can never work again. Having recently read about what entrepreneurial veterans face, I feel compelled to pass along information to help fulfill their dreams of business ownership.
The term “vetrepreneurs” refers to veterans who start small businesses or
startups. According to the Small Business Administration, this group consists of nearly 2 million small businesses that employ 5.5 million people in the U.S. Vetrepreneurs take in about $1.3 trillion in revenue annually. However, because the veteran population has declined due to aging. the number of vetowned businesses has dropped from 11% in 2014 to 8.1% in 2020 according to a 2023 SBA report.
Making the transition from military to civilian life is not easy, but another daunting challenge is finding the necessary capital. Because vets have not built up their credit during their service, they face the challenge of having to prove their credit worthiness when they retire from active duty. Getting a business loan from a bank is usually out of the question. This leaves many in the position of trying to get approved for credit without having established credit.
efficient, qualified, hardest working, problem solving group of leaders around. They have the tenacity, mental prowess, grit and determination that it takes not only to start a business but to stay in business. If you have ever ran a business of your own, then you know it is not for the weak or the lazy. It takes a warrior mentality and tons of
effort to succeed, regardless of the service or product being offered.
But where there is a will, there is a way. A good place to start is getting certified by the SBA as a veteranowned business. Looking into government contracts and small business grants available through HelloAlice. com and groups like Warrior Rising can help veterans get a jumpstart toward funding. Not only can they achieve funding, but also find mentorship and resources on how to stay in compliance so their business doesn’t run into problems down the road.
Our veterans deserve the same shot at success as other entrepreneurs. If you’re a vet wanting to start a small business, or if you know someone, tell them to start with the SBA and nonprofits dedicated to veteran entrepreneurship. As the saying goes, “The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.”
It’s unfortunate because veterans are among the most
Inglewood Today (https:// inglewoodtoday.com) has announced immediate internship opportunities for aspiring journalists and data/ research assistants. The 31year old media company is considering college and high school students for 3-6 month internships working hybrid 4-8 hours per week.
Journalist interns will have an opportunity to build their writing portfolios while interviewing celebrities, elected officials and other community leaders. They will also cover issues related to Inglewood and surrounding areas. Data/research assistants will work behind the scenes maintaining databases and helping to organize and launch a new blog.
Interested candidates may apply by submitting resumes to veronica@inglewoodtoday. com. If applying for the journalist internship, candidates must also submit their best 2-3 writing samples.
What Does a Trump Administration Mean for Inglewood?
With Donald Trump back in the White House, the reality of his administration’s policies and their direct impact on cities like Inglewood. A predominantly Black and Latino community, is no longer a matter of speculation but an urgent issue. Governor Gavin Newsom has activated “Trump-proofing” efforts across California, aiming to shield the state from federal policies that could threaten progress on immigration, education, and economic stability. But with Inglewood’s unique demographics and challenges, the city may face a direct clash between state protections and federal mandates, making the next four years a potentially challenging period for residents.
Inglewood’s Hispanic-Latino Majority and Immigration Policies
Inglewood’s Hispanic-Latino majority faces unique concerns as Trump’s immigration policies unfold. While immigration reform may be touted as targeting undocumented individuals, the reality for many Hispanic-Latino communities is that such policies often translate into racial profiling, harassment, and even the unlawful detainment of U.S. citizens who might “look” like they are not from
the US. This is especially concerning as the City of Los Angeles appoints Jim McDonnell, who previously permitted federal targeting of individuals for deportation within the county jail system, as LAPD’s new chief of police, potentially setting the stage for increased cooperation with federal immigration authorities. In a press conference, McDonnell responded to community concerns stating, “LAPD officers will not take action to determine a persons immigration status.”
While the number of undocumented residents in Inglewood is uncertain, the city’s largely Hispanic-Latino population raises questions about how Trump’s agenda may impact Inglewood’s residents.
Education Cuts and the Risk to Inglewood’s Schools
The Inglewood Unified School District, already struggling under state receivership, faces even greater risks if federal funding is cut. Many of Inglewood’s students rely heavily on federal support, like Pell Grants and federal financial aid, to access higher education. Without this aid, countless young people in Inglewood could see their paths to college and career success blocked, exacerbating educational inequities. Newsom’s commitment
to education includes increasing state funding, but this alone may not be enough to compensate for reduced federal contributions, especially in communities that are already underresourced. Inglewood Today reached out to Inglewood Unified, but were unable to connect for a comment. We intend to follow up in the coming days with their comment and will update the article on www.inglewoodtoday.com
Economic Impacts: A History of Hardships for Minority Communities
The economic track record of Republican administrations reveals a pattern: Black and Latino communities generally fare worse economically than under Democratic leadership. Minority communities tend to experience slower income growth, decreased access to healthcare, and limited economic mobility. Studies show that these disparities are pronounced, affecting everything from household incomes to small business support. For Inglewood, a community that is 39.5% Black and 49.3% Hispanic, another Trump administration could bring higher unemployment rates, fewer job opportunities, and increased economic hardships for residents. With the city already losing ground in creating
new homeowners, a 2% rise in rental households suggests fewer people can afford to buy and benefit from rising property values. Policies under this administration may further accelerate wealth disparities. Reduced resources and opportunities could heighten rental instability, displacement, and widen the wealth gap, making it increasingly difficult for residents to build and retain wealth. These seemingly small shifts have larger economic impacts: as discretionary income declines, local spending decreases, impacting small businesses and ultimately reducing tax revenues that fund public services. This dynamic is especially complex given the rise in support for Trump among Latino men; while it reflects nuanced issues within the community, it does not negate the economic threats his policies pose to Inglewood’s Black and Brown residents, who may face intensified challenges to economic stability and opportunity. This is where the continuation of the development of affordable housing, the Inglewood Champions Grant for small businesses and First Time Home Buyer programs are ways in which state and local agencies can make the decisions to invest in people over politics.
2024 General Election: Black Women Make History as California
By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
There is one African American woman currently serving in the California State Senate, Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights).
It’s the same in the U.S. Senate.
In October of 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) to complete the term of Sen. Dianne Feinstein after she passed away in September 2023. Butler will be replaced in January by Adam Schiff (D-, who won the seat after the Nov. 5 General Election.
Now, two more Black women are on pace to become California State Senators.
In the United States Senate, two Black women have already won seats. Lisa Blunt-Rochester of Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland will be going to Capitol Hill in January after winning their respective U.S. Senate races.
It will be the first time in U.S. history that two Black women have served in the Senate at the same time.
“It is remarkable to think that in two years, America will celebrate its 250th birthday and in all those years, there has been more than 2000 people
who have served in the United States Senate and only three have looked like me,” said Alsobrooks in her victory speech on Nov. 5.
“So, I want to salute all of those who came before me, who made it possible for me to stand on this stage tonight, whose sacrifice and stories I will continue to carry with me,” she added.
In Southern California, as of Nov. 11, Laura Richardson leads Michelle Chambers with 50.57% to 49.43% of votes in Senate District 35. Both women are Democrats. The 35th Senate District 35 encompasses an area in South L.A. County, including parts of Inglewood, Compton, San Pedro, Hawthorne, and Carson.
That seat is currently held by California Legislative Black Caucus vice chair Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), who terms out in December and is running for lieutenant Governor in 2026.
Richardson served in the California State Assembly in 2006-2007 before she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where she served from 2007 to 2013.
“As a dedicated housing advocate for the past decade, I stand unwavering in my commitment to
and U.S. Senators
ending homelessness,” Richardson stated on her campaign website.
“With a profound understanding of the pressing issues at hand, my top priority is to spearhead the creation of more affordable housing options.”
Chambers is a former Compton city Councilwoman who has worked for the State’s Attorney General’s office.
“Our campaign is about fighting for the needs of working families,” Chambers posted on the social media platform X, formerly called Twitter, on Oct. 11. “I’ll always stand up for our #SD35 communities – not special interests.”
In San Diego, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), is leading her Republican opponent, Bob Devine, in the race for the 39th Senate District seat. Weber has 219, 465 votes (62.4%) so far to Devine’s 132, 044 (37.6%).
Weber and Devine are vying for a seat that is currently held by Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who will be running for governor in 2026.
“I am extremely humbled and incredibly grateful for the support you’ve shown me throughout the election,” Weber posted Nov. 6 on the X. “San Diego has just made history by electing the first African American
woman to the CA State Senate south of Los Angeles. Thank you for believing in me. Now let’s get to work.”
Eight years ago, Blunt-Rochester first made history in Congress as the first Black person and woman elected to represent Delaware. Alsobrooks was a Maryland states attorney and a County Executive in Prince Georges County before running for the Senate.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black person elected as U.S. Senator from California, served from 2016 to 2020. Blunt-Rochester pointed out that Kamala Harris had only four months to launch her presidential campaign, highlighting the significant challenge of such a tight timeline.
“From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for stepping up to run when our country needed her leadership, tenacity, and commitment to serve the American people,” Blunt-Rochester stated. “Because of the trails she blazed, the lives she touched, the communities she fought for, the stories she uplifted, we are better.”
Area Communities
Serving Ladera, Hawthorne, Westchester, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson
Remembering My Friend Bettie
By Veronica Mackey
Bettie Joe Smith LCSW, an Inglewood social worker, passed away on October 11, 2024. She was 73. Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Bettie moved to Los Angeles in 1963 and graduated from Hamilton High School. She also graduated from California State University at Northridge, where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Studies. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Utah University in Salt Lake City, and later became board certified in Clinical Social Work.
In 1992, Bettie established her own private practice in Inglewood, starting with a single office. Just two years later, in 1994, she founded Life Adjustment Group at 111 N. La Brea Ave. in Inglewood. Bettie’s dedication and expertise led her to break barriers as the first Black woman to secure a city contract with the City of Inglewood Fire and Police Departments. Her contributions extended to multiple corporate partnerships where she provided invaluable support through her practice. Bettie was known for her generosity and compassion. On occasion, she would provide free services to clients who were unable to pay.
I was referred to Bettie for
counseling in 1995. After parting ways with my then-husband, and with 2 small children to raise, earning money was critical. “There’s a magazine next door called Inglewood Today,” she said. “You should go up there and see if they’re hiring.” I took her advice, and the rest is history. With a new job and Bettie’s guidance, my life took a new turn. I
became financially stable and began making new friends.
Our friendship lasted for decades— long after I stopped coming in for therapy sessions. She was the absolute best friend a single woman looking for love could have. She became my coach, my confidante, my prayer partner, someone I could always laugh with when life became
tough.
Struck by her wisdom and empathic ability to understand what I could not put into words, Bettie stayed tuned in to the many challenges that I faced. As a single mom, as a woman looking for love, a news reporter navigating my writing career and fulfilling my dream of entrepreneurship, she was always loyal, helpful and never gave me any indication that she was too busy to listen. Ever joyful and optimistic, she became my rock. Even during the times she faced her own hardships, she always had an encouraging word.
Bettie was an amazing therapist, whose work included individual therapy, couples therapy and even a support group for Black men— something so rare, but very much needed. As a licensed clinical social worker providing mental health services to a largely Black population, Bettie disproved the negative stereotype that Black people don’t believe in therapy. Her bustling practice kept her booked and busy for many years, affirming the fact that mental health is for everyone— especially Black people.
Bettie will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind 3 sisters, her brother-in-law, nephew, 3 godchildren, and a multitude of cousins and friends.
Quick Response by Inglewood Principal Underscores Value of School Safety Plans Amid Campus Incident
On the morning of October 28, 2024, Bennett-Kew Elementary School faced an unusual security incident when an individual trespassed onto campus and climbed onto a rooftop. Thanks to the quick actions of Principal Sarah Appleton, who immediately called 9-1-1 and initiated the school’s Comprehensive School Safety Plan, the situation was managed without disruption to the school day.
The Inglewood Police Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department responded promptly, engaging with the individual and negotiating his safe descent from the rooftop. By 8:05 a.m., the lockdown was lifted, and school operations returned to normal, with students and staff safe throughout the event. In a statement from
emphasized
Plan is vital for ensuring student and staff safety in any situation. It outlines clear protocols for emergencies and prepares our teams to respond quickly and effectively,” Ochoa shared. She noted that the plan is reevaluated annually by the district and the School Site Council to enhance readiness and maintain a secure learning environment.
Ochoa also praised the collaboration between the Inglewood Police Department and the Los Angeles County Fire Department, whose swift response allowed
Ochoa, Executive Director of Communications and Community Relations, the school district
Jessica
Inglewood Today News
Sports & Entertainment
Free Black-Owned Streaming Platform Launches This Week
On November 13, IHQ Network, a free Blackowned streaming platform will launch in Atlanta with a star-studded red carpet event and performances featuring comedian Bruce Bruce, R&B icon Keith Sweat, comedian Faizon Love, and multi-platinum producer, Drumma Boy.
Nicknamed IHQ for Inventor Headquarters Network, the platform blends entertainment and empowerment by offering educational, inspiring, and uplifting content.
Distributed by Radiant TV, IHQ provides creators with non-exclusive agreements that allow them to retain ownership of their work while earning a fair profit. The platform is committed to delivering stories that highlight African American culture in a positive light and foster a new era of
content ownership.
Accessible to all, the new network is set to revolutionize the streaming industry by giving creators more autonomy over their programs. It is founded by Mercer E. Prince, better known as “Rico,” a visionary
entrepreneur with a passion for empowering creatives and reshaping media narratives. His work through IHQ and Radiant TV reflects a commitment to shifting the culture, offering content that is both enriching and impactful.
For more information about IHQ network, visit the Instagram page @ ihq.network. or download the Radiant TV app.
Inglewood Today News
Election 2024: What Happens Next?
By Maya Mackey
To the shock, dismay and despair of sane people everywhere, Donald John Trump has won a second campaign run for the U.S. presidency. Contrasting his run against Joe Biden in 2020, this time Trump won the popular vote. Seventy-five million, five hundred and thirteen thousand, one hundred and seventynine people have voted for this man. Let that sink in. A felon, an alleged rapist, an undeniable racist and immoral demon. This is our reality. A second Trump presidency. So, what do we do between now and November 2028?
If you are a younger woman (under 40) and heterosexual, consider becoming incredibly wise about who you have sex with. I don’t mean to be crass, but we saw Roe v Wade get reversed in 2022 and another four years of Trump could lead to further restriction on women’s reproductive autonomy (or their right not to reproduce!).
Get into therapy. Heal your parental trauma and your attachment strategy. Then make sober (literal and metaphorical) choices about who is worthy of your time, your womb, and your partnership. If you’re not going to heed my advice to do the deeper work of healing your soul so that the man you potentially choose to have kids with or marry is one that is worthy of the role, at least stock up on Plan B and other contraceptives. Enroll in a health care plan immediately as they will cover your contraceptive choices. If you are a Black person, be prepared to tighten up in every way that can be considered a crime or a delinquency. Prop 36 is forecasted to win in California, which means petty theft will put you in jail for up to 15
years. If you already have previous criminal marks on your record, be prepared to get additional sentencing if you slip up. Three strike laws are back along with a less forgiving District Attorney Nathan Hochman. Hochman has been endorsed by police unions and District Attorneys of less progressive areas (San Diego, Orange County and Riverside to be exact.) If you voted for him, then prepare to submit to his tough on crime mission. If you didn’t vote, tough luck. You’ll have to be above reproach. Do everything by the book and do not cut corners on anything. Be prepared to experience an intense wave of racism geared toward Black people specifically for the next four years. If you have the will and the means to move abroad, even if only for a time, to experience relief, I implore you to do so. Get a passport, it’s cheaper than the Iphone 16, a pair of Jordans or a smart watch. If you can get EBT, get it. Trump’s proposal to increase tariffs on Chinese-imported goods (again your iPhone, your clothes, your cookware, basically all your everyday comforts and necessities) is going to make inflation even worse. But if you’re caught stealing to get your needs met, refer back to the consequences of Prop 36 passing. For all us, regardless of racial identity, the choice is clear. We must organize, protect and defend like nobody’s business! We must turn to the community - to forge it immediately. We have to break out of this, “nobody owes me/you anything” spell that the collective has been under. We must stop being bystanders and speak up when inappropriate matters take place— this includes speaking out against sexual harassment on public transit, witnessing child abuse or anything
else that is morally unsavory. We must feed all that are hungry without judgment or interrogation. We must open our doors and resources to all in need. Join a Buy Nothing group on Facebook and trade/giveaway items you no longer want or need and receive things that you do - all for free. Learn the philosophy of mutual aid. Plug into a political community that cares about the issues you care about (environmental justice, racial justice and reconciliation, affordable housing, dignity for gay and trans people). Community Coalition, LA Forward and Black Women Wellness are the first ones that come to mind, but there are thousands that exist
progressive candidates. Some of us need to saddle up and run for office—school board, city council, mayor, Congress, you name it. We need to stay politically engaged and educated.
alone. Do your research and get involved with people that care and are pushing to create progressive policies.
Yes, I am asking you to invest time. We cannot continue to be shocked that our presidential elections boil down to “the lesser of two evils” every four years when we haven’t put in the work to create or support
I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t pay the attention I should have in my high school government classes and it’s something that needs to be remedied. If we can create political hubs where we are in constant learning and reviewing of how our federal and local government works, how to call our representatives when we oppose a bill that is making its way through Congress, how to submit public comment at a Board of Supervisors meeting, how to step in and support people with children as a childless person; volunteering your time to serve on the school board or PTA or other school associations that busy parents might not have the time for, we can start to inch towards something better in this world. But it’s going to take all of us. So many young people and people who aren’t white or educated are indifferent to politics, and that attitude has to change. Politics happens every day, whether you participate or not. I don’t know about you, but I would certainly like to be a part of the conversations that will determine my life.
If you need help trying to navigate politics and where to begin, reach out to me at mayareneemackey@ gmail.com. We need you involved if anything is going to get better and we are all long overdue for better.
Continued from page 1: Art is...
of color in Inglewood. His exhibit at Lalo’s Grill in District 3, supported by Councilman Eloy Morales, was a tribute to family and tradition, featuring works by artists Andreina Giron, Selena Najar, Josie Macias, Victor Zuniga, and Onel Ordaz. Gómez, who is also a board member for Inglewood Open Studios, sees events like this as an opportunity to demonstrate to young people that art can be a viable career path.
In a collaborative effort with the City of Inglewood, transportation was provided throughout the weekend, making it easy for visitors to explore the various studios and galleries spread across the city. This initiative not only ensured greater accessibility but also underscored the city’s commitment to supporting local artists and making art available to everyone in the community.
The Inglewood Public Library also played a significant role in this year’s event by creating space for budding young artists. The library’s student art showcase featured works from emerging talents, including Hope Cassells, Safiyah Dawuni, Josephine Fischer, Alejandro Contreras, Danika
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John, Joseph Emmanuel, Han Kim, George Estrella, and Jacob Barri. The library also hosted a vibrant drum circle curated by The Flowlicious Experience, featuring percussionist Adwin Brown, which brought an energetic and communal spirit to the celebration.
The event also included a new addition to the weekend with Black House LA, a space showcasing the work of artists such as Jakiyah Cabell, a multidisciplinary creator who combines music, film, photography, and painting to tell powerful stories.
Cabell’s work celebrates her BIPOC identity and community, often blending visual and sonic elements to create immersive experiences. Her recent creations include hand-dyed silk scarves that incorporate her 35mm film photography, and she frequently collaborates with nonprofits in Inglewood and Los Angeles to support storytelling and cultural preservation.
Newer artists like Tracy Adewunmi also brought fresh perspectives to this year’s showcase. A software engineer and real estate agent by profession,
Adewunmi recently rekindled her love for art. She described her journey back to creativity as something she felt compelled to do. “There’s something inside that’s just trying to get out,” Adewunmi explained, discussing her motivation for painting. She values the sense of community that events like Inglewood Open Studios foster, bringing artists together to collaborate and inspire each other.
One of the highlights of the weekend was the exhibition at ECF Art Centers, where Program Supervisor Miranda Maynard and her team hosted their annual fashion show, featuring garments designed and crafted by artists with disabilities. Maynard shared how Inglewood Open Studios has provided a valuable platform for the Art Center to establish roots in the community and connect with residents.
“A lot of times, people drive by and wonder, ‘What goes on in there?’” she noted. “Inglewood Open Studios has been a great resource for us to let the community in and show them what we do.”
As the weekend concluded, the
the school day to continue without further incident. “We appreciate the quick response and resolution by the Inglewood Police Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department,”
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said which Republican governors have joined them.
Democratic state attorney generals are also working together like Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, who said they are “on the front lines to protect fundamental rights and freedoms” against Trump policies.
Last week, California Governor Gavin Newsom led a call with thousands of people, including some outside the state, to unify Democratic supporters and issue a call to action.
He warned that Trump’s second presidential term will be worse than his first. Alluding to Project 2025—a 900plus page document outlining Trump’s right wing extremist ideology— Newsom said, “We are not going to shrink and are not going to fall prey. We
Ochoa said. “Their teamwork allowed our school day to continue without disruption.”
Beyond this incident, Bennett-Kew Elementary continues to flourish
know their playbook. We know what they are going to do.”
The governor said, during the roughly 30-minute call, that through his political action committee, Campaign for Democracy, supporters could find help for the fight. “We are going to have your back, even if you do not live in the state of California, we are going to have your back. We are going to assert ourselves,” Newsom said.
During Trump’s first term in office, California led the resistance with suing the administration 120 times. One notable win took place when the Golden State prevailed in regulating tail pipe emissions and other environmental policies that Trump tried to stop.
“This is a moment where you have got to focus on what you can control,
impact of Inglewood Open Studios was evident not only in the art displayed, but in the connections formed, and the inspiration shared among artists and community members. The event demonstrated just how a 9-squaremile city like Inglewood has built a thriving arts scene and is committed to providing spaces, no matter how unconventional they may be, where creativity can flourish. The weekend’s opening night was held inside a vacant retail space at the Hyde Park Plaza on La Brea and Hyde Park, showcasing the organization’s creativity in repurposing locations across the city. By turning spaces that would typically go unnoticed into hubs of artistic expression, IOS continues to highlight Inglewood’s potential as a cultural destination and affirm its commitment to fostering a thriving, inclusive arts community. As Renée Fox put it, with sustained support and funding, there’s no limit to how Inglewood’s arts community can continue to grow and enrich the lives of its residents.
under the leadership of Principal Appleton and the support of the Bennett-Kew community. “BennettKew is a thriving school community, proud of its achievements, dynamic
and what we can control is our response to this moment,” Newsom said.
The Governor also told Democratic voters not to fear the future and not to regret the past.
Locally, the City of Los Angeles is gearing up for resistance as well. Newly appointed Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said on Friday he would not cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE.
The Trump Administration has promised mass deportation of millions of undocumented immigrants. Additionally, immigrants who moved to America illegally, and were granted amnesty under President Ronald Reagan, could face deportation as well.
“I want to be clear to all people of
programs, and meaningful events,” Ochoa added. The school celebrates many beloved traditions, including the Trunk or Treat, Book Giveaway Parade, and Climate Action Initiatives. With an active PTA, Bennett-Kew hosts events such as Muffins with Moms, Donuts with Dads, and Back to School Night, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for students and families alike.
The swift response by Principal Appleton and Inglewood’s public safety agencies highlights the critical importance of emergency preparedness on school campuses. While emergencies are unpredictable, Bennett-Kew’s handling of this incident shows that with proper protocols in place, schools can effectively manage potential threats to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Los Angeles, especially our immigrant community, which is feeling uncertainty and fear: This is a city of immigrants, and my job is to serve you,” he said during a council meeting last month, where the City Council appointed him the new chief by a vote of 11-2.
Council members Eunisses Hernandez and Hugo Soto-Martinez voted to oppose McDonnell’s appointment. Both expressed concern about his previous cooperation with ICE. Community activists expressed concern about McDonnell’s record as L.A. County Sheriff, particularly his handing over unauthorized immigrants in jail to federal agents.
“What we hope for is balance,” McDonnell said Friday. “The bar for accountability is very high.”
