Race & Politics: Solidarity in Movement – Healing Communities and Building Multiracial Solidarity

On March 2, 2025, Catalyst California hosted its Race & Politics: Solidarity in Movement event at Plaza de la Raza, a powerful and uplifting gathering to address the urgent challenges facing our state: an administration bent on abusing power, the aftermath of a devastating climate disaster, and the relentless attacks on our communities by billionaires, bigots, and authoritarian forces.   

In the words of our President and CEO John Kim, this event aimed to “spread power, not panic”, bringing together over 250 Californians in person (and another 60 online) who braved a windy Los Angeles day to heal, unite, and strengthen the multiracial solidarity needed to fight back and build a California where everyone thrives. 

The family-friendly gathering was a vibrant mix of inspiring discussions featuring Angelica Salas (CHIRLA), Dr. Manuel Pastor (USC Equity Research Institute), and Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (District 55), engaging activities, and a soulful musical performance by Brother Yusef of Altadena, all centered on multiracial solidarity and resilience in times of division and collective action. Here are some highlights! 

Brother Yusef, the Fattback Bluesman, opened the show. Having suffered significant damage to his home and the loss of his mother’s home during the Eaton Fire earlier this year, he shared his story with the rapt crowd before launching into a rollicking blues song that energized and captivated our audience. 

Catalyst California President and CEO John Kim followed that performance with inspired remarks, echoing words from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that we are “caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” He noted that strengthening our community ties is imperative as we tackle the billionaires, bigots, and bullies that seek to prey on our fears and divide us in the name of their profit margins. 

John moderated a distinguished panel of speakers who shared their insights on equity, justice, and the path forward for California. Angelica Salas, Executive Director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), informed the crowd about the Trump administration's war on immigrants and spoke about what her organization and others are doing to protect our neighbors. Noting that the crowd was primarily made up of first- and second-generation immigrants, she said, “We are powerful, courageous human beings. We came to this country because we believed in a vision for our life that is better…That power is within us, and it will help us get through these difficult hard times.”  

Hon. Isaac Bryan, Assemblymember for California's 55th District and former majority leader, highlighted the stark contrast between what we’re fighting for and what our opposition wants—the demonization of diversity, equity, and inclusion: “Who we are is radical. We radically love each other. We’re radical because they decided the things we believe in are radical. Because we believe folks should have healthcare. To them, that’s radical...We believe everyone should have the right to an education. To them, that’s radical... They believe diversity, equity, and inclusion are bad words, and that future is radical, but that’s the future we live in Los Angeles right now.” 

Dr. Manuel Pastor, Director of the Equity Research Institute at the University of Southern California and a longtime partner of the organization, commented on how history is repeating itself but also spoke to the future. He talked about his son, who wants to “make things of beauty with his friends,” and how that speaks to what we are doing as part of the racial justice movement. “We’re trying to build a movement of beauty with our friends. We are trying to build a California that is welcoming, and inclusive. Where immigrants and everyone else can find their dreams.” 

Following the engaging panel discussion, the crowd was treated to a second, soul-stirring performance by Brother Yusef. His music provided a heartfelt soundtrack to the movement, reminding everyone of the power of art and culture in inspiring change.  

As the event concluded, the message was clear: The time is now. 

California’s future depends on our ability to unite, heal, and fight for a state where everyone can thrive.  As Executive Vice President of Catalyst California Wendy Killian put it: “Solidarity is what is going to get us through these times of uncertainty.” 

Thank you to everyone who joined us on this special day. The fight continues, and we’re stronger together as a beacon of hope, equity, and justice for all.

Thank you to our sponsors MESG Marketing and First 5 LA!

Miss the event, or want to relive it? Watch the livestream below!