Thorn West would like to platform its own interviews with local activists, agitators, etc. Suggestions, and volunteers, welcome as always. Email [email protected]!\
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The Thorn West is a state and local news roundup compiled by members of DSA-LA. Our goal is to provide a weekly update on the latest developments in state and local politics, and to track the issues that are most important to our membership.
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Issue No. 110 - May 27, 2022
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- A mayoral debate last week focused on homelessness — and demonstrated the value of Gina Viola’s participation, as she persistently advocated for housing policy shaped by the input of unhoused people. Available to watch here.
- Incumbent Councilmember Gil Cedillo conducted his first debate with his opponent this week, only after online pressure threatened his ability to collect matching funds from the city. He packed the audience with his own staffers. Likewise, staff for incumbent Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell disrupted a candidate forum for CD 13.
- If protest actions directed at Brett Kavanugh and Texas Governor Gregg Abbott were at least somewhat heartening reminders that you aren’t the only person who feels anger about recent events, a reminder: in Los Angeles many politicians and media think you shouldn’t be able to do that sort of thing.
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A major victory today was secured by the Hillside Villa Tenants Association! The city council voted unanimously to approve a funding mechanism for the city to purchase Hillside Villa Apartments and maintain affordable rent. Today’s vote follows years of tenant organization following the expiration of the building’s affordable housing covenant, and the current landlord’s attempt to impose massive rent hikes. Capital & Main covered that effort earlier in the week.
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- Metro Los Angeles has officially canceled plans to widen the 710 freeway, a plan that would have destroyed homes and increased pollution in South LA County communities. Even in an election day issue, there are many victories for direct action strategies to report!
- Drafted by Streets 4 All, Healthy Streets LA is a public ballot measure that would compel the city to follow the guidelines of its own long-ignored mobility plan. Now, the Los Angeles City Council is following along, and introduced its own similar motion this week.
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Police Violence and Community Resistance
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- A series of hearings began this week on the subject of deputy gangs operating within the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The hearings are being conducted by the Civilian Oversight Commission.
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- California’s street vendors have won significant protections from state-level legislation, but a new bill that passed in the state Senate today would move things backwards by imposing stricter fines against vendors in “high-tourist areas.” L.A. Taco covers.
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