Community Fights Back After Warehouse Fire

Wednesday evening, around 50 people gathered for a vigil in front of Resurrection Church in Boyle Heights, holding candles and rosaries. They were preparing to pray and fight for Eastside’s future.

Resurrection Church is over a century old and has been a symbol of resistance for residents angered by injustices affecting Latino Los Angeles. A significant event causing distress is the Lineage warehouse fire, igniting nearly two months ago. The fire left the area covered in a foul smell from rotting food.

Sofia Quinones stood at the podium during the vigil, saying, “We pray because we have suffered for a century due to environmental racism.” Behind her, an illustration depicting a phoenix representing Boyle Heights was on T-shirts everyone wore.

The peaceful gathering was interrupted by a loudspeaker from an LAPD helicopter demanding a shooting suspect to surrender. Quinones continued, “We ask that you open the hearts and minds of the powerful. We ask you, Lord, to help us.” The attendees recited prayers and then moved to a teach-in about the Lineage incident, singing a Psalm-based song.

Father Jorge Moncada discussed the challenges the parish faced over the years. He was struck by the community’s resilience in handling issues like proposed prisons and environmental destruction.

Monsignor John Moretta recalled the parish’s constant struggle against problems. He emphasized his optimistic nature and dedication despite ongoing challenges. He mentioned the busload of parishioners who testified about the warehouse fire’s impact at a public hearing.

Historically, activities at Resurrection Church have significantly influenced Latino politics in Los Angeles. Many political figures have sought Moretta’s guidance, contributing to the parishioners’ various causes.

Wendy Carrillo reflected on a large community forum at Resurrection in 2016. Participants were disappointed by the government’s lack of accountability after a nearby plant closed. Carrillo attributed the parish’s activism spirit to its location near East Los Angeles.

Moretta, despite surpassing retirement age, remains active in the church’s mission. He understands the need for engagement and stresses the importance of actions reflecting Christ’s teachings.

Moncada and Moretta joined the vigil but missed the subsequent town hall led by Alma Marquez. Marquez spoke passionately about the community’s fight against Lineage and shared her renewed faith.

During the town hall, participants shared grievances and organized for future action. Several attendees, like Dolores Mejia, considered returning to their faith due to the church’s positive work.

Cynthia Rios plans to mobilize others for a march against Lineage. Her commitment follows the Guadalupana committee’s organizing strategies.

Maria E. Morales, an active parishioner, detailed past actions and emphasized the need for more community engagement. She remains hopeful about future growth and mobilization efforts.