Dear LA Civil Rights Family,

Service takes many forms -- in uniform, in community, and in public leadership. Last week, our city passed one of the most difficult budgets in decades. While departments across Los Angeles are facing hard cuts, our work to advance civil and human rights continues with purpose. As we honored the anniversary of George Floyd's murder and mourned the recent antisemitic killings of Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky in Washington D.C., we were reminded of the weight our communities carry. I contacted leaders from our Jewish community following the attack. Similarly, when the Islamic Center of Southern California was vandalized with graffiti earlier this month, we stood with our Muslim leaders, and we will continue to advocate for all communities because when hate strikes, silence cannot be an answer.

This past weekend, we also celebrated Memorial Day. In my family, Memorial Day is more than a holiday. It is a moment to remember, reflect, and give thanks. I often think of summers at my grandmother’s house, sitting on the porch, celebrating the participants of the local Memorial Day parade. I'm reminded of all the brave individuals, like my father, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, who all served in the military. My father-in-law earned a Purple Heart during the Korean War and still bears a scar near his eye -- a quiet, powerful reminder that freedom is never without sacrifice. We carry the legacy of our soldiers and the lives lost in how we show up, give back, and honor those who came before us.

Difficult situations show why this work matters and why standing up to hate, discrimination, and injustice must remain a priority for all Angelenos. The LA Civil Rights Department continues to be committed to protecting communities, advancing equity, and showing up for our most marginalized communities. As such, if you experience discrimination in the City of Los Angeles, please report it to us at LAisForEveryone.com.

Keep the faith, and keep the fight,



Capri Maddox, Esq.

Executive Director

LA Civil Rights Department

Rooted in Resilience:

Recognizing AAPI Advocacy

Image Description: Rooted in Resilience panel participants standing inside the Japanese American National Museum.

In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, LA Civil Rights proudly hosted a meaningful conversation, Rooted in Resilience: Advocacy Through the Generations. We uplifted the voices of advocates who have pushed for justice, equity, and inclusion across AANHPI communities.

This powerful dialogue honored Asian American leaders who paved the way through tireless activism. Panelists shared the value of multicultural activism, cultural pride, and standing together to confront hate, stereotypes, and discrimination targeting the AANHPI community. Many of these challenges continue to impact our immigrant communities here in Los Angeles.

Rooted in history, culture, and shared experiences, our conversation looked toward the future with hope and purpose. Through solidarity and resilience, our collective efforts will continue to shape a more just and inclusive Los Angeles.

Thank you to our incredible panelists and all who joined us, including Connie Chung Joe, Esq., our Commission on Civil Rights Commissioners: Hoàng Nguyễn and Lacy Lew Nguyen Wright, Commission Chair Abigail Tapang Zelenski, Esq., and Board of Public Works President Steve Kang.

For further details, see more coverage on LA This Week.

Honoring 10 Years of Religious Pluralism

Image Description: Executive Director Capri Maddox speaks at the Los Angeles Celebration for Religious Pluralism along with diverse community leaders.

Los Angeles is recognized worldwide for its religious diversity and stands as a model for how government and community can unite in a spirit of mutual respect and inclusion. Ten years ago, the City of Los Angeles formally affirmed this commitment by recognizing religious pluralism as a core civic value. For the last decade, our city has continued to champion interfaith dialogue and understanding.

This year marked the 10th Annual Day of Religious Pluralism, a milestone celebration, which brought together diverse faith leaders, advocates, and community members to honor the rich tapestry of belief and tradition in Los Angeles. With leadership from City Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky (CD5) and the LA Civil Rights Department, the event reaffirmed the city's dedication to interfaith dialogue, collaboration, and the core values of human dignity. This event was sponsored by the Ismaili Council of the Western USA, the LA Council of Religious Leaders, and the Interreligious Council of Southern California, and featured Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson (CD8), Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez (CD1), Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez (CD13), multi-faith prayers, choir performances, and reflections to underscore a shared commitment to religious freedom and unity.

At the LA Civil Rights Department, we believe everyone—regardless of faith—should feel safe to practice their religion authentically. We are deeply grateful to the faith leaders, who open spaces for challenging conversations and work to strengthen interfaith engagement.



See photos and watch some exciting moments on LA This Week.