To the editor: I admire Mayor Karen Bass for not only running her campaign on a promise to address homelessness in Los Angeles, but for taking decisive action to fulfill that promise. On her first day in office in December 2022, Bass declared a state of emergency over homelessness. The number of homeless residents counted in Los Angeles County has declined slightly, decreasing by about 0.3% since last year.
While any reduction in homelessness is a significant achievement, however small, it underscores Mayor Bass’s steadfast commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
As a single mother who has been homeless and has experienced the challenges of living on Skid Row more than once, I truly appreciate your proactive stance and sympathize with the impact of such policies on the community.
Her leadership embodies compassion, pragmatism and a clear vision for tackling complex social issues through thoughtful governance and inclusive strategies, making us all feel that we have a role to play in addressing homelessness and fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Eric Protein Moseley, Richmond