Incarcerated Firefighters on the Frontlines of the Los Angeles Fires

As Los Angeles grapples with the devastation of wildfires, Victor highlights the helpers, and the impact on lives that you likely haven’t heard about yet.   There is a surprising number of inmates working as firefighters for little pay. A former member of the California program joins Victor to share what it takes to respond to fire emergencies.   Plus, the chief of the Pechanga Fire Department shares with Victor what he’s been hearing from his crews assisting in Los Angeles, and the unique expertise California’s native tribes have to share.   Many communities and families are forever changed by these fires. Victor speaks with a lifelong resident of Altadena, Zaire Calvin. Zaire lost his home and his sister, Evelyn McClendon, was killed. Zaire shares with Victor what it’s like dealing with that scale of loss, and what he hopes to see happen when it comes time to rebuild homes.   And Victor speaks with a principal in Pasadena who opened up his school to help families in need.   We’re also following a disturbing story out of Puerto Rico, where an alleged arson attack destroyed businesses over the New Year’s holiday and there hasn’t been an arrest. A property owner whose livelihood was impacted shares his emotional message to the alleged arsonist.   And the son of the late Black nationalist leader Marcus Garvey joins Victor. Dr. Julius Garvey explains the action he wants President Biden to take for his father before he leaves office, and why the request has the backing of some lawmakers in Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices