Edison Celebrates Black History Month While Refusing Housing Aid After Decimation of Black West Altadena Community
On Friday, 2/20, Edison hosted a Black History Month event, and residents of west Altadena – a historically Black community that was decimated by the January 2025 Eaton Fire – held a protest outside. Protesters criticized Edison’s compensation plan, calling for $200,000 in emergency housing assistance and a formal acknowledgment of responsibility for the disaster. Many survivors are rejecting Edison’s voluntary payouts because they require waiving the right to sue for future health implications from the fire, and they argue the offers fall short as insurance benefits run out. Protesters also demanded greater transparency from the utility. Edison has acknowledged it likely caused the fire but denies wrongdoing and continues to insist its compensation program is the best path forward.