Community leaders urge Los Angeles council to protect budget for marginalized groups

The Los Angeles City Budget Hearings held on April 28, 2025, highlighted critical concerns from community representatives regarding proposed budget cuts and their potential impacts on vulnerable populations. Key discussions centered around the need for increased funding to support marginalized communities, particularly the transgender community, and essential city services.

Marco Navarro, a member of the Troaltino Coalition, urged city officials to allocate at least $25,000 to support organizations that assist transgender individuals. He emphasized that budget cuts could exacerbate existing inequalities, leading to job losses and reduced access to vital services for the transgender community. Navarro described the situation as a matter of life or death, calling for prioritization of funding to prevent further marginalization.

Cameron Carrasquillo, a city planner from the Office of Racial Equity, stressed the importance of continued funding for planning initiatives aimed at addressing systemic issues such as inadequate housing and infrastructure. He highlighted the office's role in fostering community resilience and urged the council to support these critical programs to combat illegal practices and promote equity.

Angela Williams, another speaker, echoed concerns about budget cuts affecting city planning efforts. She warned that reducing staff would hinder the city's ability to meet its development goals and adequately represent marginalized voices in decision-making processes. Williams called for the council to reject any layoffs in the planning department to maintain progress and quality of life for residents.

Additionally, María Luna spoke on behalf of community organizations, advocating for the continuation of funding for programs like GRID, which have successfully reduced gang involvement through community engagement and prevention efforts. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment, especially with the upcoming Olympics, to protect residents and uphold the city's reputation.

The discussions during the budget hearings reflect a growing concern among community leaders about the potential consequences of budget reductions on essential services and support systems for vulnerable populations in Los Angeles. As the city grapples with financial challenges, the voices of these advocates underscore the need for thoughtful consideration of budget allocations to ensure equity and support for all residents.