Los Angeles Black Worker Center

Taking big strides

“It’s in a time of pandemic when people and workers are at their most vulnerable because the employer has to be shut down. We created Google forms that allow the community to be able to respond to ‘What can you do for the community in this time of need?’ but also just asking, ‘What do you need?’ We created a rapid response team of our most dedicated members that can respond to our member base and ask them if they’re okay. And that’s a form of wellness. [We ask things like] ‘Do you need help with your utility bill? Do you need help with getting food or groceries?’ So, it’s a unity we have as black people, but also showing that we really care authentically and genuinely about our people’s health. We’re really taking big strides in responding to COVID-19.”

—Jeremiah Gordon, Lead Organizer

When you’re unified, there’s strength

“Yesterday I called four people. Each one of them’s going to call two people. [One person said] ‘Tell Jeremiah I want some more numbers to call.’ So, you got people eager like that and some people, no matter whatever you ask them, even though it’s last minute, they’re still willing to do it. This is my second family. And I appreciate the fact that somebody is looking out for me. My parents are dead. And I don’t have many older relatives that are living. I’m always greeted with love and affection and they let you know that they care about you. And when you feel alone, you’re not alone. We’re unified. And when you’re unified, there’s strength.”

-—Kenneth Spencer, Core Member