Brandon Lamar Launches Campaign for Pasadena City Council District 3

Brandon Lamar officially launched his campaign for District 3’s City Council seat in the 2024 election on Saturday, July 29. 

Lamar faces incumbent Justin Jones.

Lamar’s campaign kickoff event showcased diverse cultural performances, including a poem by Jor’Denay Brown and a drumline performance by Crown City Drumline. 

Prominent guest speakers at the event included Councilmember Jess Rivas, Dr. William Syms, Dominick Correy (Field Deputy for Senator Anthony Portantino), Jelani Hendrix of Black Los Angeles Young Democrats, Raúl Ibáñez (former Chair of the Community Police Oversight Commission), and Lena Kennedy, sister of the late Pasadena City Councilmember John J. Kennedy. 

Rivas praised Lamar’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, emphasizing his track record of bringing people together. 

“ I’m endorsing Brandon because he understands the job is about being present and making real connections with neighbors. One of the things that most impressed me most during the appointment process was how many District 3 residents wrote and called in to share how present and connected he is. When Brandon is on the Council he will show up and he will listen to you because that is what he has always done,” said Councilmember Jess Rivas.

Raúl Ibáñez also endorsed Lamar for his dedication to promoting equity and fairness within District 3, ensuring that every individual’s voice is heard and supported.

“You can count on Brandon being present, every time,”  Ibáñez said. 

Lena Kennedy shared conversations she had with her late brother about mentoring Lamar. 

“I stand with you, Brandon Lamar, to be in — not to try to, but to be — in District 3 Council seat,” Lena Kennedy said.

“She’s the only person that would be able to validate the words of the late District 3 Councilmember,” Lamar said in response to Lena Kennedy’s remarks. “She spoke about my commitment to public service, integrity, and tireless efforts to uplift the community.” 

The kickoff event was also attended by other past and present elected officials, business leaders, and community advocates, acknowledging Lamar’s dedication to building coalitions and promoting the well-being of all residents.

Addressing key concerns from District 3 residents, Lamar said he plans to focus on affordable housing, public safety, and homelessness. 

“Homeowners are concerned that their children and grandchildren are being displaced because of the lack of affordable housing,” Lamar said. “Even though Pasadena has seen a small increase in homelessness during the last homeless count, we also understand that these numbers don’t include individuals living in their cars or sleeping on a couch.” 

Lamar has experience in various roles in the community, including Chair of the Human Relations Commission, and Director of Programs for LAPD Hollywood Police Activities League. 

Lamar said his campaign envisions a Pasadena that celebrates diversity through arts and culture, promoting inclusivity and creating a welcoming space for all residents.

“By promoting arts and culture within District 3, we can build a stronger, more connected community that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of pride and belonging,” he said. “I will champion the transformative power of arts and culture, recognizing their vital role in shaping the identity and spirit of our district.” 

Asked about what policies he has in mind to address racial disparities in juvenile and child welfare systems, Lamar said he’s proposing community-based violence prevention programs, school-based interventions, trauma-informed city staff, and increased support services for families in crisis.

Having grown up in Northwest Pasadena and attended public schools, Lamar has been involved in community programs and advocacy since his youth, serving in the Pasadena NAACP, the Pasadena Youth Council, and the Human Relations Commission. He has also worked in the nonprofit sector, focusing on issues such as poverty, education, mental health, and community engagement.

“As someone who has actively worked to address racial disparities, I am committed to tackling systemic racism and discrimination in District 3,” he said. “This includes advocating for policies that promote economic opportunity, affordable housing, and equity for marginalized communities.”

As the current Chair of Pasadenans Organizing for Progress (POP!), Lamar has been instrumental in pushing for progressive policies in the city, such as rent control, police oversight, clean energy, living wages, immigrant rights, and affordable housing.

Lamar said he is running for City Council because he believes that District 3 deserves a representative who is responsive, accessible, and accountable to the people.

For more information, visit www.brandonforpasadena.com.