As families gather for the winter holidays, political tensions remain at the forefront following a divisive election year. Carl Luna, director for the Institute for Civil Civic Engagement at the University of San Diego, advises cooling down political discourse during the holidays. He stresses the importance of finding common ground and working together on community projects to bridge political divides.
Looking ahead, Governor Gavin Newsom and California lawmakers are preparing to combat potential challenges from the incoming Trump administration, focusing on issues such as reproductive rights, school funding, and immigration policies. Local leaders are urged to have a legal strategy in place to address potential federal changes that may impact their communities.
In the worst-case scenario, Luna warns of potential escalation to violence, including conflicts between local and federal authorities, protests against deportations, and vigilante attacks. He emphasizes the importance of condemning violence and fostering a sense of unity within the community to prevent further escalation.
In positive news, Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre was elected as the vice chair of the California Coastal Commission, highlighting her dedication to environmental conservation and her efforts to combat border pollution in the Tijuana River Valley. Additionally, San Diego County is tightening rules for battery storage facilities in response to recent fires, prioritizing safety until fire codes are updated.
As the holiday season approaches, Luna encourages community members to reflect on where they draw the line in political conflicts and to consider how they can contribute to maintaining peace and unity within their communities.
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Photo credit voiceofsandiego.org
