Jay King, Special to California Black Media Partners  

In the wake of the unprecedented fires that have ravaged Southern California — devastating cities like Pasadena, Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu — there has been an alarming rise in the blame being placed on Mayor Karen Bass.

This is not only unfair. It reflects a troubling shift in our national psyche. The reality is that no one, not even the most seasoned leader, could have prevented this once-in-a-lifetime catastrophe. Fires of this scale are the result of a perfect storm of conditions — extreme weather, dry landscapes, and unpredictable winds — that even the best-equipped fire departments can only do so much to contain.

Yet, rather than supporting our leaders and rallying around our communities, some have chosen to point fingers. Why? Because, sadly, it’s easier to assign blame than to step up and make a difference. Our collective instinct should not be to demand the head of our mayor, but to come together and ask the question: How can we help?

This firestorm has left countless families devastated, but it also offers a chance to test the strength of our character. In the face of destruction, we have a choice. We can choose to embrace the America that once prided itself on unity, on coming together in times of crisis to lift each other up, regardless of political affiliation. Or we can allow partisanship and political divides to further erode the fabric of our society.

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What happened to the days when Americans would band together — Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike — to rebuild in the aftermath of disaster? What happened to the America that offered its hand to help a neighbor, not condemn them? We are all part of the same community, bound by a common purpose: to support one another when the worst happens.

It is easy to be critical when we are sitting in the comfort of our homes, far from the horrific flames and fires. But for those on the ground — the firefighters, the first responders, the families who have lost everything — the real question is not who is to blame but how we can rebuild, will we be able to hold on to our property or will we get mortgage and property tax relief, there are so many unanswered and overwhelming questions to answer. The recovery will take time, and it will take a collective effort from all of us: residents, leaders, banks, government, homebuilders, labor leaders and volunteers too.

Mayor Bass was elected to lead, but leadership in times of crisis isn’t about finding a magic solution. It’s about coordination, resilience, and community.

So, let’s stop the finger-pointing. Let’s stop the partisan bickering that has no place in the midst of a tragedy. Instead, let’s unite in the true spirit of community. Reach out to the mayor, reach out to your neighbors, and ask what you can do. Whether it’s offering resources, volunteering, or donating, now is the time to act—not with anger, but with compassion.

This is how we rise from disaster, not by tearing each other down, but by lifting each other up.

Let’s be the America we all want to see.

 About the Author

Jay King is the President and CEO of the California Black Chamber of Commerce.

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