Can We Trust FEMA? Can We Trust President Donald Trump?

First, their homes burned. Now, their hope is fading.

On January 7, the Eaton Canyon fire tore through Altadena’s historic Black community, destroying 80% of Black-owned homes and leaving families in a desperate fight to rebuild. However, as survivors sift through the ashes, a second crisis looms: Can FEMA be trusted to deliver the aid they need, or will broken promises leave them abandoned? And can we trust President Donald Trump to ensure disaster relief reaches those who need it most?

On this episode of KBLA TALK 1580’s Conversation Live: Altadena Rising with James Farr, the show of record chronicling this tragedy for the nation, Farr investigates whether the federal government is failing Black Altadenans in their greatest moment of need. For him, this isn’t just a story—it’s personal. Though his family escaped the flames, many of his friends and neighbors lost everything and now face endless red tape and delays.

Martin Gordon, a Black Panther and chair of the Pasadena Community Coalition, recounts his harrowing escape from the fire and the devastation of losing his home. He calls out the urgent need for accountability and real support. La-Tanga Hopes, a FEMA media relations specialist, joins the discussion to address concerns about delays, misinformation, and whether FEMA is being gutted under Trump’s administration—just as other vital services have been stripped away.

This isn’t just about rebuilding homes. It’s about survival, justice, and the future of Black disaster victims in America. Will FEMA follow through? Will Trump’s administration step up—or step aside?

Tune in to Conversation Live: Altadena Rising with James Farr—the show of record chronicling this crisis for the nation.

Saturday 10AM James Farr will explore Altadena's Black community's deep roots and resilience as we track its recovery and reimagine its future. From relief efforts to rebuilding, we’re raising up voices, stories, and solutions to build Black Altadena back better and stronger than ever.

Every Saturday at 10 AM/PT and Sunday at 12PM/PT

Contact: tunnelvisionlive@gmail.com www.jamesfarrlive.com