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LA Briefs: City Budget Advances, Port OKs Clean Truck Funding Plan

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LA Briefs: City Budget Advances, Port OKs Clean Truck Funding Plan

 

CD15 Policy Update: LA’s Budget

LOS ANGELES —On June 6, Mayor Bass signed the 2025–26 fiscal year budget, which includes the recommended changes from both the committee and the city council. Initially, the mayor’s proposal called for eliminating over 1,600 filled positions. These cuts would have resulted in major layoffs and serious impacts to essential city services. Fortunately, after careful review by the budget and finance committee, Los Angeles City Council was able to preserve about 1,000 of those positions and protect many of the services residents rely on.

“This has been a challenging process, with the City facing an estimated $1 billion budget gap, councilmember Tim McOsker said. “As Chair of the Personnel Committee, I’ll continue working to transition at-risk employees into funded roles and negotiate with labor partners to reduce further job losses. In this budget, public safety remains a top priority, with the Fire Department receiving the largest funding increase and additional support allocated to the LAPD. While we’ve made meaningful progress, our work isn’t done. I remain committed to restoring services and strengthening the City for the One-Five and all Angelenos.”

Port of LA Approves Clean Truck Fund Spending Plan Through 2027

LOS ANGELES — The Port of Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners May 27 approved a new clean truck fund or CTF spending plan for fiscal years 2025 through 2027, directing an estimated $120 million toward zero-emission or ZE truck deployment and supporting infrastructure. The three-year plan will guide how CTF revenues will be allocated to meet the Port’s 2035 zero-emission drayage goal.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/POLA-clean-truck-fund

California Officials Lead Bicameral Effort to Demand President Trump Withdraw National Guard and Marines from LA

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California Officials Lead Bicameral Effort to Demand President Trump Withdraw National Guard and Marines from LA

WASHINGTON, DC — Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), and 39 other California Delegation Representatives are demanding President Donald Trump immediately withdraw the National Guard and U.S. Marines from Los Angeles, California. In a bicameral letter sent yesterday, the lawmakers condemn the deployments as an unlawful overreach that bypassed state and local authority and urge the immediate withdrawal of the National Guard and Marines.

“We are writing to express grave concern regarding the deployment of the National Guard and the activation of 700 Marines to Los Angeles. These actions were taken without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom and over the objections of local law enforcement. It constitutes a clear violation of constitutional principles and law, and a grave overreach of executive authority,” wrote the lawmakers.

“This deployment does not appear to be motivated by any public safety emergency that could not be dealt with successfully by local authorities. Instead, it coincides with a broader federal enforcement escalation involving mass ICE raids, militarized immigration tactics, and the use of tear gas and riot control methods in civilian areas. These actions undermine civil liberties, destabilize communities, erode public trust in government institutions, and violate the law,” continued the lawmakers.

On June 7 and June 9, Rep. Jimmy Gomez was illegally denied access to the Roybal Federal Building, where ICE is reportedly detaining migrant families — including moms and children— under inhumane conditions. Rep. Gomez called for a formal DHS investigation and submitted a written inquiry demanding answers and accountability from Secretary Kristi Noem. As protests erupted in Los Angeles in response to the raids and detentions, the Trump administration escalated the situation by authorizing the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines — without the consent of California Gov. Gavin Newsom and over the objections of local elected and community leaders. They argue the legal authority Trump cited doesn’t apply — making the deployment plainly unlawful.

“As federal officials we must prioritize de-escalation and adherence to the constitutional principles that govern the balance of power between federal and state and local governments. For these reasons, we urge you to immediately withdraw the National Guard and U.S. Marines from Los Angeles and to refrain from further deployments of any military personnel in circumstances that violate constitutional boundaries and escalate domestic tensions,” concluded the lawmakers.

Details: Read the full letter HERE.

TRAA Updates: Torrance “Responds” to Hazard Control Request, Reports on Chemical Safety Agency Closure

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TRAA Updates: Torrance “Responds” to Hazard Control Request, Reports on Chemical Safety Agency Closure

 

Torrance Finally Responds to TRAA’s FOIA Request – Kind Of

Although refineries are required to conduct a Hierarchy of Hazard Control Analysis or HCA and produce its results, Torrance Refinery Action Alliance has fought for years to acquire a copy. On June 9, TRAA reported in a little-known regulation established in 2017; refineries that use hydrofluoric acid or HF, an exceptionally dangerous chemical that can cause mass casualties in a few minutes, “are required to conduct a Hierarchy of Hazard Control Analysis or HCA of its units on a repeating five-year cycle. A hazard control analysis requires the refinery to enumerate the hazards of each process, and to assess whether higher order safety measures are feasible” [like using a vastly safer chemical], – from a letter sent by Torrance Refinery-PBF to TRAA, 2018.

The first five-year cycle ended October 2022 and somebody has been playing “hide the football” ever since. (See this Article from June 2023 for background).

Then,TRAA received a highly-redacted copy of the HCA report. In fact every word of every answer was redacted. This is the sort of stonewalling the City of Torrance and the refinery have done since the beginning. Absolutely no information was provided.

Details: For images go to, https://tinyurl.com/Torrance-and-FOIA-request

 

White House Proposes Shutting Down Chemical Safety Agency

Torrance Refinery Action Alliance June 3 shared a report by The Washington Post. It states that an independent agency that investigates chemical disasters — including fatal fires and explosions at chemical plants and oil refineries nationwide — would shutter by October 2026 under little-noticed language in White House budget documents released Friday.

The proposal to eliminate the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board is almost certain to face pushback from lawmakers in both parties. President Donald Trump repeatedly called for zeroing out the agency’s funding during his first term, only for Congress to maintain or increase its budget.

This time, however, Trump is trying to seize greater control of independent agencies, testing the limits of presidential power. The Supreme Court last month refused to immediately reinstate a pair of independent regulators fired by the Trump administration, saying the president may have the authority to oust them.

Details: Link to read for free: https://wapo.st/4dHupNU

An art piece becomes real life

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An art piece becomes real life

Nadya Tolokonnikova revisits her imprisonment for protests with Pussy Riot, and finds herself again in a “Police State”

By Evelyn McDonnell

In downtown LA, the artist Nadya Tolokonnikova is currently performing an art piece that is both a time capsule and a prophecy. “Police State” opened June 5 just blocks from the streets that would a day later become a battleground, with government forces intent on ripping workers from their jobs, families, and homes; incarcerating them without due process; and then assaulting the good citizens who attempted to protect their neighbors and exercise their right to assembly and free speech. The clampdown is an experience Tolokonnikova knows intimately. In the heart of the giant WAREHOUSE space at the MOCA Geffen Contemporary stands a metal jail. It is modeled after the cell in which she spent almost two years after her group Pussy Riot protested Vladimir Putin’s theocratic regime.

Tolokonnikova is spending all day in this 10’x16’ room. On the wall of her cage hang artworks from political prisoners in Russia, Belarus, and the US. She live-mixes her voice, her heartbeat, prayers, shouted commands from harsh male voices, and other ominous sounds in volumes that rise and fall. You can watch her through small windows as she mixes, sews, eats, urinates. In the warehouse, banners emblazoned “Punk’s not dead” in Arabic-looking cursive twist and turn in wind created by fans. Pieces from her Icon series hang on the wall, fashioned from bed sheets made by American and Belarusian prisoners. Gumball dispensers are labeled with the names of poisons known to be used against Putin’s enemies.

The durational performance is intense and terrifying, all the more so because it is based in Tolokonnikova’s lived history and references the real incarcerations of so many others. If you have any experience of having your own or a loved one’s liberty constrained – or if you just exercise your human capacity for empathy – “Police State” can be hard to endure. That’s the point.

I would imagine it’s intensely triggering for Nadya. She has said that she is doing it as a form of therapy to confront the continued trauma of her arrest, trial, and imprisonment. But it is also a warning to its viewers.

On my way home from witnessing “Police State,” I drove through LA’s garment district, thinking about all the people who work there, their industry and their struggles. Little did I know that the next day, ICE would swoop in with their military gear and steal away 45 human beings, including David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union, California. Angelenos took to the streets, attempting to stop the detentions and drive the national good squad away. In the ensuing mayhem, now on day four, ICE officers, the Los Angeles Police Department, and finally the National Guard fired tear gas and “less-lethal” ammunition at people exercising their rights to free speech and assembly, including foreign journalists.

Talk about a Police State.

Ironically, the MOCA Geffen itself had to close its doors due to the police violence outside. Tolokonnikova is still enclosing herself in her cell, continuing her performance, now “blasting the live audio of the protests at the empty museum,” she posted on her Instagram account. “Police State,” the installation, continues until Sunday, when a conversation with Nadya Tolokonnikova and others is scheduled, followed by a concert with Pussy Riot Siberia. That is, the talk and show will happen if the real Police State happening outside her cell and the museum allows.

 

LA County Supes Push Back on Immigration Raids, Call for Youth Probation Oversight

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LA County Supes Push Back on Immigration Raids, Call for Youth Probation Oversight

County Votes to Take Action in Response to Immigration Raids

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors June 10 approved a motion by Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn in response to a series of federal immigration enforcement actions that began June 6, and have continued into the new week.

The enforcement actions have resulted in the detention of several individuals at multiple locations across the County. Federal agents have conducted operations at various Home Depot stores and at Ambiance Apparel, a clothing wholesaler, where flash-bang grenades and pepper spray were reportedly used against protesters. David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union–United Service Workers West, was among those taken into custody. Protests and demonstrations have continued in response.

Despite vocal opposition from California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, President Donald Trump federalized 2,000 California National Guard troops to support ongoing enforcement efforts. This unlawful act has unnecessarily escalated tensions between protestors and law enforcement. In response, Gov. Newsom filed a lawsuit on June 10 in opposition to the federal administration’s encroachment. The federal administration has stated its intent to continue mass deportation operations nationwide.

The motion directs the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs or OIA to immediately consult with community-based organizations, faith groups and directly impacted individuals to assess gaps in the county’s rapid response network and recommend solutions. It also calls for OIA to work with county departments to connect affected residents with critical services, including mental health care, public benefits and workforce support.

The motion further directs the development of multilingual resource guides to be made available online and at County facilities, exploration of text-based outreach to immigrant communities, and a review of publicly accessible County-owned properties to help prevent their use by immigration enforcement agencies. Lastly, the motion authorizes County Counsel to support the State of California’s case opposing the federalization of the California National Guard.

A report back on these directives is expected within 30 days.

Residents who have been impacted by the enforcement actions are encouraged to contact the office of immigrant affairs through the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs for support and assistance.

 

Supervisors Orders New CCTV Monitoring Policy for Probation Youth Facilities

LOS ANGELES —The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors June 10 directed the Probation Department to report back to the board with a comprehensive Closed-Circuit Television or CCTV monitoring policy to increase accountability and protect young people in juvenile detention facilities.

The action comes shortly after the board approved a $2.7 million settlement for a youth who was repeatedly assaulted while incarcerated at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall while. This egregious act of abuse was caught on CCTV camera, but because no one was monitoring the footage at the time, it took weeks before the footage was discovered. The CCTV footage has led to the indictment of multiple probation officers by the California Attorney General.

The motion, authored by Supervisor Janice Hahn and co-authored by Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, instructs the chief probation officer to report back to the board in writing within 30 days with a CCTV review protocol which the department will submit to the California Department of Justice or DOJ. The plan must:

  • Establish a protocol for 24/7 CCTV monitoring
  • Incorporate best practices from other jurisdictions related to CCTV use in juvenile facilities
  • Include a system of internal random audits of footage to ensure accurate documentation of incidents, such as use-of-force events
  • Require review of footage after any injury sustained by youth, staff, or service providers, to ensure procedures were properly followed and documented
  • Provide a timeline and implementation plan, including employee training once the protocol is approved by the DOJ

Gov. Newsom Moves to Block Trump’s Unlawful Militarization of Los Angeles with Emergency Motion

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Gov. Newsom Moves to Block Trump’s Unlawful Militarization of Los Angeles with Emergency Motion

 

LOS ANGELES — Following President Trump’s doubling down on the militarization of the Los Angeles area through the takeover of 4,000 more California National Guard soldiers and the unlawful deployment of the U.S. Marines, Gov. Newsom and Attorney General Bonta are filing an emergency request for the court to block President Trump and the Department of Defense from expanding the current mission of federalized Cal Guard personnel and Marines. This mission orders soldiers to engage in unlawful civilian law enforcement activities in communities across the region, beyond just guarding federal buildings.

“The federal government is now turning the military against American citizens. Sending trained warfighters onto the streets is unprecedented and threatens the very core of our democracy. Donald Trump is behaving like a tyrant, not a President. We ask the court to immediately block these unlawful actions,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The request was filed as part of the Governor’s lawsuit against President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Department of Defense or DOD, charging violations of the U.S. Constitution and the President’s Title 10 authority, not only because the takeover occurred without the consent or input of the Governor, as federal law requires, but also because it was unwarranted

The lawsuit was filed as President Trump declared the federalization of 2,000 Cal Guard servicemembers after community members began protesting violent and widespread Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE operations in the Los Angeles region, which began on June 6. ICE began these operations without providing notification to law enforcement and engineered them to provoke community backlash

During the course of these operations, ICE officers took actions that inflamed tensions — including the arrest and detainment of children, community advocates, and people without criminal history — and conducted military-style operations that sparked panic in the community. In response, community members began protesting to express opposition to these violent tactics, arrests of innocent people, and the President’s heavy-handed immigration agenda. Protests continued for two more days, and although some violent and illegal incidents were reported — leading to justified arrests by state and local authorities — these protests were largely nonviolent and involved citizens exercising their First Amendment right to protest. The protests did not necessitate federal intervention, and local and state law enforcement have been able to control the situation, as in other recent instances of unrest. Local law enforcement, despite no communication or advanced notice from the federal government, responded quickly and did not request federal assistance.

Illegal militarization

On June 7, one day after the protests began, President Trump issued a memorandum purporting to authorize the DOD to call up 2,000 National Guard personnel into federal service for a period of 60 days, and declaring a “form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States” and directing the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with state governors and the National Guard to commandeer state militias.

The action puts state sovereignty in danger, as his order was not specific to California and suggests that the President could assume control of any state militia.

The U.S. Constitution and the Title 10 authority the President invoked in the memo require that the Governor consent to federalization of the National Guard, which Gov. Newsom was not given the opportunity to do prior to their deployment and which he confirmed he had not given shortly after their deployment. The President’s unlawful order infringes on Gov. Newsom’s role as Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard and violates the state’s sovereign right to control and have available its National Guard in the absence of a lawful invocation of federal power

Additionally, DOD has expanded Cal Guard’s duties, ordering them to assist ICE agents in civilian law enforcement activities — including arresting and detaining immigrants and others who may be suspected or accused of interfering with ICE — a direct violation of the U.S. Constitution and the rights of American citizens.

Cleaning up Trump’s mess

On Saturday, there were 250+ protesters pre-National Guard deployment. On Sunday, the protesters grew to 3,000+ post-deployment of the National Guard by the federal government. Their presence is inviting and incentivizing demonstrations.

Since President Trump’s impulsive memo and actions to send the military to the Los Angeles region, the state continued to work with local partners to surge 800+ additional state and local law enforcement officers into Los Angeles to clean up President Trump’s mess. Local and state law enforcement has had to intervene to protect public safety. The National Guard is currently standing sentry outside federal buildings, with local and state law enforcement doing all of the work.

The President’s actions have not only caused widespread panic and chaos, but have unnecessarily created an additional diversion of resources as the state tries to calm a community terrorized by this reckless federal action.

In 2020, Trump said he wouldn’t federalize National Guard members without the approval of the state’s Governor first. His own Department of Homeland Security leader said just last year that federalizing the National Guard would be a direct attack on state rights. The federal administration is adding more National Guard soldiers and Marines to an already charged situation when they are unneeded. There are 1,600 soldiers waiting for commands at armories in the area.

Details: Read more about the lawsuit here.

Long Beach Opens Public Service Corps Applications, Kicks Off Free Summer Meals for Youth

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Long Beach Opens Public Service Corps Applications, Kicks Off Free Summer Meals for Youth

 

City Opens Applications for the Long Beach Public Service Corps Program

The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department or department is now accepting applications for the third cohort of the Long Beach Public Service Corps Program or LBPSC. The program offers paid internships that provide young people with practical work experience in various roles across city departments. Applications are available online through June 30, 2025.

Facilitated by the Department’s Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network (LBWIN) Youth Career Services Center, formerly known as Future LB, the LBPSC provides local college students and recent graduates ages 18 to 30 with hands-on experience working in city government and exploring careers in public service. The program is intended to foster economic inclusion and expand opportunities for residents, including young people, to develop successful career paths. Participants will engage in a series of professional development workshops designed to highlight important topics in public service, such as budgeting, community engagement, crisis management, sustainability, ethics and policy. Participants will be compensated $22 hourly for a maximum of 800 hours during the 2025 – 2026 academic year.

Priority will be given to senior-level students at California State University, Long Beach or California State University, Dominguez Hills, those completing a career technical education program at Long Beach City College, students residing in Long Beach, and those who face a barrier to employment. Additional information regarding eligibility and requirements is available on the LBPSC webpage.

The program is a collaborative effort between the Department’s Workforce Development Bureau, the Long Beach Human Resources Department, and the city’s legislative offices. Department staff will oversee case management and payroll coordination for participants, as well as supportive wraparound services, including transportation assistance, clothing vouchers, rental assistance and utility payment assistance to ensure participants have the foundation and tools to complete the program successfully. Participants will also receive job counseling, employment placement and access to industry-recognized training to support their long-term career goals.

For additional information visit:longbeach.gov/psc or contact the LBWIN Youth Career Services Center at 562.570.4700.

Details: Read Full Press Release Here

Long Beach Parks to Offer Free Summer Food Service Program for Children and Youth June 16 through Aug. 22

For the 46th year in a row, the City of Long Beach, Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine will offer the free United States Department of Agriculture or USDA summer food service program to provide free, nutritious meals to Long Beach children and youth over the summer months.

Beginning June 16 through Aug. 22, 2025, PRM will provide free meals in parks for children and youth Mondays through Fridays, with operating times varying at each site between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (excluding holidays on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4, 2025). Additionally, meals will be served at Bret Harte and Brewitt Neighborhood Libraries Tuesdays through Fridays beginning June 17 through Aug. 8. Meals will be available to all attending children and youth between 1 and 18 years old. Infant meals will not be provided. Lunches must be eaten in the designated eating area. Meals will consist of well-balanced, nutritious options and will include cold components such as milk, juice, fruits and vegetables. To participate, eligible youth can simply arrive at a participating location during the designated times, no registration required.

This year, the summer food service program will operate at 24 locations throughout Long Beach and Signal Hill.

Details: To view the complete list of times and locations where meals will be provided and for more information, visit: https://tinyurl.com/Summer-food-program or call, 562-570-3524.

Plezia Named Port’s Managing Director of Engineering

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Plezia Named Port’s Managing Director of Engineering

 

The Port of Long Beach has promoted Suzanne Plezia, P.E., to managing director of engineering services to succeed Sean Gamette, P.E., who earlier this spring announced his retirement. Plezia has been the port’s senior director of the engineering services bureau and chief harbor engineer since April 2017.

Plezia will lead the port’s engineering bureau, which comprises more than 300 employees across six divisions – program management, construction management, project controls, survey, engineering design and maintenance. In her new role, Plezia will oversee a 10-year $3.2 billion capital improvement program to enhance the port’s capacity, competitiveness and sustainability.

“We’re building the Port of the future in Long Beach, and we are going to rely on experts and leaders like Suzanne,” said Port Chief Executive Officer Mario Cordero. “We will miss Sean Gamette and we bid him a fond farewell, and we know that Suzanne will fill his shoes.”

The port has $3.2 billion in planned modernization projects over the next 10 years, which includes the completion of the Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility and the infrastructure needed to support the transition to zero-emissions operations. The port has also proposed to develop “Pier Wind,” which would be the largest port-based offshore wind turbine assembly site in the U.S.

Port executives consider Plezia a trailblazer. She joined the port in 1996 as an intern, just after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from University of California, Irvine. She eventually rose to deputy chief harbor engineer before being named director of construction management and had also worked in the program management and design divisions. She became senior director/chief harbor engineer in April 2017.

Plezia has led many of the port’s strategic projects including Pier Wind, the redevelopment of the Pier G container terminal, and the construction of the Long Beach International Gateway Bridge.

Plezia will replace Gamette shortly after his last day on June 11 and will report to chief pperating officer Dr. Noel Hacegaba.

California Briefs: Two Strikes — Governor Sues Trump Over Guard Takeover, Applauds Ruling on Restoration of AmeriCorps Funding

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California Briefs: Two Strikes — Governor Sues Trump Over Guard Takeover, Applauds Ruling on Restoration of AmeriCorps Funding

 

Gov. Newsom Suing President Trump and Department of Defense for Illegal Takeover of CalGuard Unit

LOS ANGELES – Following President Trump’s call to arrest Gov. Gavin Newsom, the Governor and Attorney General Rob Bonta June 9 have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to end the illegal and unnecessary takeover of a CalGuard unit, which has needlessly escalated chaos and violence in the Los Angeles region.

The lawsuit, which names president Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Department of Defense, outlines why the takeover violates the U.S. Constitution and exceeds the President’s Title 10 authority, not only because the takeover occurred without the consent or input of the Governor, as federal law requires, but also because it was unwarranted.

“Donald Trump is creating fear and terror by failing to adhere to the U.S. Constitution and overstepping his authority. This is a manufactured crisis to allow him to take over a state militia, damaging the very foundation of our republic. Every governor, red or blue, should reject this outrageous overreach. This is beyond incompetence — this is him intentionally causing chaos, terrorizing communities, and endangering the principles of our great democracy. It is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism. We will not let this stand,” said Gov. Newsom.

Under the California Constitution, Gov. Newsom is the Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard. In the lawsuit, Gov.Newsom and Attorney General Bonta explain that the federal government has overstepped its legal authority and bypassed the Governor’s approval to take over a unit of CalGuard, in a situation where federal government intervention was not needed and did not meet the necessary criteria for federalization.

The unrest in Los Angeles was nowhere close to rising to the level of a “rebellion” beyond the capacity of local and state authorities to control, nor is it different in kind from other similar situations in recent years that were brought under control by local authorities with no need for military intervention. The Department of Defense’s mobilization order also failed to comply with President Trump’s own direction to coordinate with the Governor and the National Guard.

Trump’s illegal takeover

On Friday, June 6, 2025, the federal government, through Immigration and Customs Enforcement, began conducting widespread operations throughout Los Angeles without providing notification to local law enforcement. During the course of these operations, ICE officers took actions that inflamed tensions, including the arrest and detainment of children, and military-style operations that sparked panic in the community. The Department of Homeland Security reported that its enforcement activities on June 6 resulted in the arrest of 44 individuals, two of whom appear to have been minors. Only five of those arrested reportedly had any criminal history.

In response, community members began protesting to express opposition to these violent tactics, the President’s heavy-handed, violent immigration agenda, and the arrest of innocent people, and to express solidarity with and concern for the individuals and families most directly impacted by the enforcement actions taking place in their community. Protests continued for two more days, and although some violent and illegal incidents were reported — leading to justified arrests by state and local authorities — these protests were largely nonviolent and involved citizens exercising their First Amendment right to protest. At no point did these protests necessitate federal intervention, and local and state law enforcement remained in control of the situation. Local law enforcement, despite no communication or advanced notice from the federal government, responded quickly and did not request federal assistance.

No basis for takeover

Soon after protests began, on June 7, President Trump issued a memorandum entitled “Department of Defense Security for the Protection of Department of Homeland Security Functions,” purporting to authorize the Department of Defense to call up 2,000 National Guard personnel into federal service for a period of 60 days, and declaring a “rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States” and directing the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with state governors and the National Guard to commandeer state militias. This order was not specific to California and suggests that the President could assume control of any state militia.

President Trump then began posting to social media that the protests in California were out of control and that the federal government had taken over the California National Guard — further inflaming fear in the community, inciting fear and violence, and endangering state sovereignty. Notably, by the time the National Guard arrived on Sunday morning, the protests had dissipated thanks to local law enforcement, and the streets were quiet. The President’s Actions and the military presence inflamed the very protest and violence it was supposedly meant to suppress.

President Trump’s unprecedented order attempts to usurp state authority and resources via 10 U.S.C. § 12406, a statute that has been invoked on its own only once before in modern history and for highly unusual circumstances — when President Richard Nixon called upon the National Guard to deliver the mail during the 1970 Postal Service Strike. This is also the first time since 1965 — when President Johnson sent troops to Alabama to protect civil rights demonstrators — that a president has activated a state’s National Guard without a request from the state’s governor.

Ending Trump’s abuse of power

On June 9, Gov. Newsom and Attorney General Bonta stood up for all states’ authority through this lawsuit. The lawsuit asks the court to end the federal government’s gross overstep of authority and require President Trump and Secretary Hegseth to follow the appropriate legal steps to take over any state militia, including an order issued through the Governor.

The lawsuit also explains that:

  • The federalization of the California National Guard deprives California of resources to protect itself and its citizens, including those working on drug interdiction at the border, and of critical responders in the event of a state of emergency — such as the January 2025 firestorm in Los Angeles, which CalGuard responded to.
  • 10 U.S.C. § 12406 requires that the Governor consent to federalization of the National Guard, which Gov. Newsom was not given the opportunity to do prior to their deployment.
  • The President’s unlawful order infringes on Gov. Newsom’s role as Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard and violates the state’s sovereign right to control and have available its National Guard in the absence of a lawful invocation of federal power.
  • The situation in Los Angeles didn’t meet the criteria for federalization, which includes invasion by a foreign country, rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States, and being unable to execute federal laws. At no point was this the case in the Los Angeles area, where local and state law enforcement remained in control.

What they WERE saying

Donald Trump: In a Townhall with ABC in 2020, Trump said he couldn’t move the National Guard into Democratic-run cities without the Governor’s approval. See here and here for the full transcript.

  • STEPHANOPOULOS: Mr. President, you promised four years ago at the Republican Convention, I’m going to restore law and order.
  • TRUMP: And I have, except in Democrat run cities. Look, we have laws. We have to go by the laws. We can’t move in the National Guard. I can call insurrection but there’s no reason to ever do that, even in a Portland case. We can’t call in the National Guard unless we’re requested by a governor. If a governor or a mayor is a Democrat and they — like in Portland, we call them constantly. I just spoke to the governor yesterday because we’re giving them relief on the fires. We’re giving them a — an emergency declaration

 

Gov. Newsom Statement on Court Ruling Restoring AmeriCorps Funding

SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom issued the following statement June 5 after a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must restore funding to AmeriCorps in California. This comes after Gov. Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta and a coalition of states sued the Trump administration over DOGE efforts to dismantle AmeriCorps – the federal agency vital to supporting volunteer and service efforts in California and across the country.

“Common sense has prevailed over cruelty. The court is rightly siding with volunteers and service workers. Today, we’re doing right by John F. Kennedy and Sargent Shriver and all those who put others before themselves,” said Gov.Gavin Newsom.

In 2024, at least 6,150 California members served at more than 1,200 locations, including schools, food banks, homeless shelters, health clinics, youth centers, veterans’ facilities and other nonprofit and faith-based organizations. When the devastating fires struck Los Angeles earlier this year, AmeriCorps members were on the ground, distributing supplies and supporting families. The agency’s shutdown ends these efforts.

California Service Corps is the largest service force in the nation, consisting of four paid service programs:

Combined, it is a force larger than the Peace Corps and is mobilized at a time when California is addressing post-pandemic academic recovery, rebuilding from the LA fires and planning for the future of the state’s workforce.

In the 2023-24 service year, AmeriCorps members in California:

  • Provided 4,397,674 hours of service
  • Tutored/mentored 73,833 students
  • Supported 17,000 foster youth with education and employment
  • Planted 39,288 trees

Members helped 26,000 households impacted by the LA fires and packed 21,000 food boxes.

“Call Freedom: Artists Speak,” an Exhibition Presented by Angel City Culture Quest Podcast in Collaboration with Range Projects

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“Call Freedom: Artists Speak,” an Exhibition Presented by Angel City Culture Quest Podcast in Collaboration with Range Projects

 

Deadline to Enter: July 31, 2025. NO ENTRY FEES

Now is the time to speak louder than ever. We cannot be silenced, and in that vein, we announce an open call for Artists to “CALL FREEDOM!”

LOS ANGELES — On June 9, Angel City Culture Quest or ACCQ announced an open call for the new exhibition, Call Freedom: Artists Speak, in collaboration with Range Projects. The exhibit is set to run from Sept. 6 to 27. Send your visual and literary art, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, drawing, printmaking, photography, graphic design, or text (poetry, book readings, songs).

The exhibition will be juried by podcast producer/host and journalist, Melina Paris.

Paris, producer of ACCQ, is a journalist and podcast host. ACCQ is a labor of love with a deep focus on her guests and their works. The show does not do any advertising and would be deeply grateful for your support and participation in this fundraiser. A silent auction featuring select artworks will run throughout the exhibition, concluding at approximately 5:30 p.m with proceeds benefiting ACCQ, supporting its role in the community.

About the Exhibition

Art has always been a voice during turmoil, and Angel City Culture Quest presents this exhibition as a fundraiser and to engage and activate ideas around the theme, “Freedom!”

“For everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labour in freedom.” – Albert Einstein.

We have been told so often that we are free by those in power; do we blindly accept it without understanding the true meaning of Freedom anymore?

In our home, America, and around the world, people’s rights are being dismantled more every day.

Oligarchy reigns.

“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded bythe oppressed.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

It’s time to remind ourselves and our nation how to CALL FREEDOM!

Now is the time to show up and speak to what freedom really means in the “home of the free.”

Show us what your heart knows of freedom. Bring us what, in the depths of your imagination, defines freedom. Tell us what Freedom of Speech is in all its glory and pain. What is – or what is not freedom of religion?

“Freedom is privilege extended unless enjoyed by one and all” from the lyrics of a new version of the Internationale, by Billy Bragg

Create a work on what the freedom to assemble means. Recite a poem, do a reading, or sing a song about our inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Write about or show us how vital the Freedom of the Press is.

“A work of art is a declaration of freedom. There has never been anything so difficult for mankind to bear as freedom.” Oskar Schlemmer, German painter and designer.

Be the clarion call and bring us your best work for Freedom. Before it is gone.

The way to secure liberty is to place it in the people’s hands, that is, to give them the power at all times to defend it in the legislature and in the courts of justice.” -John Adams

About your Juror and Angel City Culture Quest

Melina Paris is an accomplished arts journalist, podcast producer, and cultural advocate. She has dedicated over a decade to illuminating the artistic landscape of Los Angeles, particularly focusing on the Harbor area. Through in-depth interviews and compelling narratives with artists of many media, she delves into their creative processes, often examining themes of social justice and environmental consciousness.

Her work reflects the power of journalism in bridging communities. Her podcast showcases the richness of Los Angeles’ artistic heritage and fosters deeper connections between creators and audiences. Melina’s commitment to the arts extends beyond media, as she engages in advocacy and community-building activities that reinforce the importance of cultural expression in societal development.

By bringing attention to the often-overlooked dimensions of the artistic experience, Melina continues to inspire and inform, reinforcing the transformative power of the arts in society.

Exhibition dates:

Time: 3 to 6 p.m. opening reception, Sept. 6. The show runs through to Sept. 27

Cost: Free

Details: Submissions link: https://tinyurl.com/Call-Freedom-Submissions

Venue: Range Projects, 3718 W Slauson Ave, Los Angeles www.instagram.com/rangeprojectsgallery

No Entree Fees:

Why?

Fundraising for the arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and even smaller, local Arts organizations are being slashed. This exhibition is intended to promote the LA arts community. Angel City Culture Quest’s philosophy is: let’s support each other, however that may look; via art, podcasting, highlighting artists and their works, arts journalism, or sharing information. We’re in this with you, the artist.

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