In Fire’s Wake, a Community Comes Together to Prevent Future Disasters
“As we address the aftermath of the wildfires, let us resolve not just to build back better but also smarter, with a commitment to the environment and future generations. As a pastor, I am guided by the principle that caring for creation is an integral part of our faith. Let us take inspiration from the teachings of love and stewardship, embracing the role of being good caretakers of God’s earth. Without a shadow of a doubt, community solidarity is crucial in the f ight against climate change.”
These are the words of Rev. Dr. Larry E. Campbell, Senior Pastor of Pasadena’s historic First African Methodist Episcopal Church. Last month, the Eaton Fire devastated the area, destroying the homes of 49 of his congregants.
The fire raged through Pasadena and hit Altadena particularly hard. Nestled in the foothills of Angeles National Forest, Altadena is an unincorporated part of Los Angeles County where many of Pastor Campbell’s congregants live. Growing up in a similar California community on the wilderness edge, I recall f ires confined to forests, not neighborhoods. However, due to extreme drought, climate instability, and the broader climate crisis, residents now face increasing firestorm threats in their own towns and cities.
Altadena suffered severe losses—17 lives and thousands of homes destroyed—far exceeding Pasadena’s toll of just under 200 homes. Yet, Pasadena’s city leaders and community activists stepped up to support their neighbors.
“In this community, we don’t make large distinctions between Altadena and Pasadena. We all grew up together, went to school together, and when families who lost their homes in Altadena needed shelter, their Pasadena relatives and friends opened their doors,” said Pasadena Councilmember Tyron Hampton in an interview with the Los Angeles Sentinel. “We really are one big community.”
Community leaders are not only working to rebuild but also taking steps to prevent future disasters. In 2023, the Pasadena City Council passed a Climate Emergency Resolution, setting a goal for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. Now, in the wake of the fires, a coalition of activists is pushing to ensure Pasadena meets that target.
For those of us raised in the Black Church, Adam’s commandment was clear: defend, protect, and nurture the Garden. Today, the Garden is in crisis. The resilience displayed in Altadena and Pasadena should inspire us all to take a stand for our planet’s future.
Altadena’s Legacy and the Impact of the Fires
Altadena has a rich history, particularly within the Black community. It was a beacon for a thriving Black middle class in Southern California, home to luminaries such as:
Octavia Butler, celebrated science fiction author and MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient.
Eldridge Cleaver, activist and early Black Panther leader.
Sidney Poitier, Hollywood and civil rights trailblazer, the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Charles W. White, artist renowned for his depictions of Black history.
Even in the 19th century, Altadena was a place of Black achievement and racial unity. Robert Owens, born into slavery in 1806, became Los Angeles County’s wealthiest Black man. His home, El Prieto Canyon, was named in his honor. Altadena is also the final resting place of abolitionist Ellen Garrison Jackson Clark and Owen Brown, the last surviving participant in John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry.
However, past discriminatory policies such as redlining have left lasting vulnerabilities. A UCLA study found that Black residents were disproportionately affected by the Eaton Fire—61% of Black households were within the fire perimeter, compared to 50% of non-Black households. Nearly half of Altadena’s Black residents lost their homes or suffered severe damage. Furthermore, 57% of Altadena’s Black homeowners are over 65, making them especially vulnerable in the disaster’s aftermath.
As we enter the first week of Black History Month, let us ensure that the climate crisis does not erase our history. At the core of Black History Month is the commitment to making America a truly united nation. Preventing future climate disasters must be a priority—not only to protect homes and buildings but also to preserve rich histories and generational wealth.
The people of Altadena and Pasadena are showing us what resilience, unity, and action look like. Now, it is up to all of us to follow their lead.