Since moving into the
Petworth neighborhood there have been at least three lethal Black—Latino
confrontations no more than a block or two from our home.
Throughout the district’s
political framework there are also blatant examples of anti-Latino sentiment
with respect to homelessness:
At the end of a waiting list
of over three hundred Black families there are hundreds of Latino families
waiting. In the middle of a predominantly Latino neighborhood there are family
shelters that do not admit Latinos.
As a
consequence, Marco and I decided to address these issues with a Lenten fast as we approached
the two communities. We were not fasting to pressure anyone but to begin a non-violent
journey. During this time, we have been working with a growing coalition to
facilitate this goal.
Every aspect of organizing
is very expensive and we have gotten a lot of help. However, the campaign
has just begun, and we need much more financial assistance. In addition,
our rent was increased this year and now takes 89% of our regular budget.
Meanwhile, Abraham House is
currently celebrating its tenth year of operating an auto body shop. We also need the vehicles you wish to
discard.
For the Community,
Harold & Marco