LA Wildfires: Rapid Research Response Series

In light of the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles, the UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge and the UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute, in collaboration with their research partners, have launched a rapid research response to assess the impacts of these disasters on disadvantaged populations and communities. These analyses highlight the urgent need for policymakers to adopt equitable and just policy responses as Los Angeles begins rebuilding from the destruction caused by the wildfires.

Asian American Language Needs in L.A. Wildfires

UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
UCLA Asian American Studies Center
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
AAPI Equity Alliance

With significant language barriers in L.A. County’s Asian American communities, effective communication during disasters remains a critical challenge. Ensuring that all residents receive life-saving information requires culturally and linguistically appropriate action.

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L.A. Wildfires: Impacts on Altadena’s Black Community

UCLA Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute

The Eaton Fire exposed how decades of segregation and redlining have left Black households more vulnerable, a legacy that should be taken in account in future recovery efforts and allocation of emergency resources.

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Wildfires and Latino Communities: Analysis of Residents, Workers, and Jobs in LA County Fire Evacuation Zones

UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge

At least 35,000 jobs held by Latinos were at risk of temporary or permanent displacement due to the Palisades, Eaton and Hurst wildfires, data show. Among the most vulnerable workers due to their already precarious position in the labor market, Latinos face a greater risk of economic displacement and financial hardship.

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Wildfires and Latino Communities: Health, Economic, and Preparedness Challenges

UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge

Wildfires in Los Angeles County have led to disproportionate risks to Latino communities due to pre-existing health vulnerabilities, economic challenges, and systemic gaps in emergency preparedness and health resources.

Read the data brief