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On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the EC Homelessness Working Group was joined by Veronica Lewis, Director of HOPICS. This meeting focused on addressing racial disparities in homelessness in LA County, educating members on the LA County Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI) Initiative and their recent report, and highlighting the organization HOPICS.

Key points from the meeting included:

  1. The history of LA County ARDI Initiative, the Ad Hoc Committee on Black People Experiencing Homelessness, the advent of LA County’s anti-racism agenda (introduced by EC Founder, Dr. Mark Ridley-Thomas).
    1. Article on the introduction of LA County Anti-Racism Policy Agenda – BOS Motion (2020)
    2. Article on the introduction of LA County Anti-Racism Policy Agenda – BOS Motion (2020)
  2. HOPICS’ services at large (PowerPoint presentation)
  3. HOPICS’ services and initiatives towards bolstering equity and addressing racial disparities in homelessness in SPA 6 and LA County at large.

There remains an urgent need for continued engagement, including EC Homelessness Working Group Members sending letters to elected officials and LA County Departments regarding Measure A and increased anti-racism initiatives in homelessness. Find your LA County Supervisor to send a letter.

Cover page from report "A Path to Equity: Organizations Leading Transformative Efforts to Address Racial Inequities in Homelessness. Click to download a PDF of the report.