Long Beach residents rally against SpaceX's expansion citing environmental and social justice issues

Community voices echoed through the Long Beach City Council meeting on April 22, 2025, as residents passionately opposed SpaceX's expansion plans at the local port. Activists, including members of the Feminist Uprising, urged council members to reconsider the implications of allowing the aerospace giant to operate in their city, framing the issue as one of environmental justice and community health.

One speaker, representing her ancestors and future generations, called for Long Beach to take a stand against what she described as a "Nazi" figure in Elon Musk. She emphasized the city's diverse population and the collective power of its residents to voice their concerns. "We have that voice," she declared, urging the council to place SpaceX on the agenda for community discussion.

Ashley, another co-founder of the Feminist Uprising, highlighted the environmental risks associated with SpaceX operations, arguing that they disproportionately affect marginalized communities, particularly women of color. "Ecocide is a feminist issue," she stated, stressing that true gender justice cannot be separated from environmental justice. She called for a Long Beach that prioritizes community voices over corporate interests.

Jennifer Cohen, also from the Feminist Uprising, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the growing petition against SpaceX and questioning how the company's presence aligns with the city's values of inclusivity and protection for all residents. She raised concerns about public health, citing Long Beach's high asthma rates and the potential for increased pollution.

Meg Dahlke, another resident, warned that SpaceX's expansion would deepen existing divides and harm the environment. She urged the council to invest in community needs rather than corporate ambitions, stating, "We need to invest in us, in affordable housing, clean energy, public transportation, and education."

Serenity Vejar, a biology student and daughter of longshoremen, reinforced the historical significance of labor rights in Long Beach, arguing that partnering with a company that opposes union ideals undermines the city's legacy. She presented alarming statistics about SpaceX's carbon emissions, emphasizing the environmental impact of their operations.

As the meeting concluded, the collective message from residents was clear: they demand that the Long Beach City Council prioritize the health and well-being of their community over corporate interests. The council's response to these passionate pleas remains to be seen, but the voices of Long Beach residents are determined to be heard.