Political Gumbo: We Need The Black History Festival

Finally got back to my place on Altadena Drive and Marengo on Friday.

No surprises, I’ve seen it on TV a half dozen times. The only thing I recognized was the dryer, but it wasn’t on the back porch.

As much as I can figure, it was probably launched into the backyard after the gas line went.

Spent about an hour up there, didn’t do any sifting through the rubble.

The amazing part, amidst all the ash and ruins there are still ripe lemons on my tree.

An entire tree full of them.

Life can still thrive on Coleman land, and it will again.

We’ll see what the next castle looks like.

A moat with alligators would be cool.

I wonder if alligators eat vultures, or if you know the real estate stealing kind.

Anyway …

Last week it was announced that the City’s Black History Parade has been canceled, but the Black History Festival absolutely should go on this year.

Great idea.

But immediately some, not many, began criticizing the decision to allow the festival to occur and that’s their right.

I see it differently.

The fire has already taken enough from so many in Pasadena and Altadena.

We should not let it take away City traditions and celebrations.

Yes, people are displaced, people are hurt and some are angry.

And I fit in that category.

But our community lives on, if we allow it to.

Yes, I get it, this is Pasadena’s parade and festival and the oldest in Southern California.

But as far as I am concerned for now we can be Altadena/Pasadena.

One Dena.

People from up the hill travel down the hill for City Council meetings and City functions all the time.

Not to mention, the opinions expressed by Altadena residents on Pasadena politics.

I remember when I said that Altadenans were not the Mayor’s constituents after he faced criticism following a community meeting in Pasadena.

Some of my Altadena neighbors were livid. Those were good times.

So miss me with Pasadena should have nothing to do with the Altadena.

Respect to the City Manager, City staff and every City Council member for the concern and effort they have shown for Altadena.

And yes, that includes discussions about the water.

Not calling for annexation … today. I am simply saying we need all the help we can get.

Back on point.

Anyone that graduated from the PUSD went to high school below Woodbury Road.

In my mind, the festival is a statement and an acknowledgement of that very heritage my brethren on TV keep talking about.

Celebrate Blackness and the City’s commitment to equality.

But I have one suggestion, on that one day fly the Pasadena and Altadena flags at City Hall.

Dena Strong.