Congresswoman Karen Bass

South LA Community Standing Together Against COVID-19

In just a few weeks, the coronavirus has completely changed life as we know it. This pandemic has also exposed the wealth and necessity of community-based organizations, and a need for a substantial social safety net. Every resident is feeling the devastating impact of COVID-19 within South LA and across the City of Los Angeles. This crisis requires elected leaders, residents, and community-based organizations to collaborate on solutions. The vital role of South LA nonprofits like Community Coalition and other resident led organizations is amplified during times like these. While many residents are rightfully focused on meeting the needs of themselves and their families, many feel a responsibility to help their neighbors and their community at large during this pandemic.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Do You Qualify For the $1,200 Payment?

On Friday, March 27, 2020, the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law after the House of Representatives passed it earlier that day. The bill is the largest relief package signed into law in United States history and will impact nearly every person in this country.

After Democratic Party’s Silence on Death of Two Black Gay Men at Democratic Donor’s Home, Jasmyne Cannick Won Her Election to their Board

After being ignored by her state and local Democratic Party’s leadership when she called attention to the crystal meth overdose deaths of two Black gay men at Democratic donor Ed Buck’s home– Jasmyne Cannick has won a seat on the Party’s coveted County Central Committee. On Super Tuesday, March 3, Cannick earned enough votes to secure her seat on the elected body that oversees the Los Angeles County Democratic Party.

Congressional Black Caucus Congratulates Ethiopian Prime Minister on Nobel Peace Prize

Last Friday, 10/11/19, Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopian prime minister was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his relentless pursuit of democratic reforms and regional peacemaking efforts that ultimately led to the end of a standoff with Eritrea. Congresswoman Karen Bass, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus(CBC) issued the following statement on behalf of the CBC: 

Rep. Bass Statement on the Arrest of Ed Buck

“It’s incomprehensible to me that it took a third Black man to be attacked and almost die to finally dissolve the unconscionable apathy that has allowed Ed Buck, a racist sexual predator, to roam free. Everyone knew that he preyed on young Black men — two died in his apartment. The inaction in response had a message was loud and clear: Black gay lives obviously didn’t matter.

Congressional Black Caucus Slams the Trump Administration for Refusing Temporary Status to Bahamians

As reported by NBC News, the Trump Administration has announced it will not provide temporary protected status to Bahamians who fled Hurricane Dorian. If granted, this status would have let Bahamians work and live in the United States until it is deemed safe to return to their home. Congresswoman Karen Bass, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement in response:

‘Black-ish’ Star Marcus Scribner On Activism, Social Media and Creating Change

When he’s not playing socially awkward Junior in ABC’s comedy “Black-ish,” Marcus Scribner, gives back in major ways. The Los Angeles native has starred in “Black-ish” since the show premiered in 2014. As the show success continues to grow, Scribner has used his spotlight in a positive way. Though most television stars fear becoming activists due to social pressure, Scribner describes his activism as a priority. The actor uses his platform to uplift various issues. Those issues range from increasing younger voter turnout to creating dialogue about the foster care system. Scribner spoke with The Los Angeles Sentinel about his recent conversation with Congresswoman Karen Bass. “Me and Congresswoman Bass talked about what

Rep. Bass Statement of Concern Regarding the Appointment of Lana Marks as Unites States Ambassador to South Africa

“In order for our country to fully take advantage of these opportunities, it is imperative that people with strong backgrounds relevant to the countries they will serve are appointed to be ambassadors, especially to sensitive countries such as South Africa, where less than 70 years ago, the United States refused to stand with the rest of the world in opposing the Apartheid regime established there. South Africa is a key strategic partner and a key ally on the continent and I look forward to continuing our work to build capacity there.”