Karen Bass urges Angelenos to clean up after protests in downtown LA
- In April 2025, the 'Shine LA' initiative was launched to clean the streets of Los Angeles in preparation for major global events.
- Following recent protests against ICE, the initiative gained momentum, with hundreds of volunteers participating in cleanup efforts.
- Mayor Karen Bass has called for community involvement to help improve the perception of downtown and restore public spaces.
In April 2025, a community initiative called 'Shine LA' was launched in Los Angeles, California, aiming to clean the streets ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. The initiative encourages local residents to take part in monthly cleanup activities to improve the image of downtown Los Angeles, which has faced significant challenges due to recent protests and the resulting vandalism. Over the past months, many volunteers have participated in these clean-up efforts, particularly after protests against ICE escalated, leading to destruction in the downtown area. Amid calls for action from local leadership, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the need for community involvement in revitalizing the city, stating that the sense of fear among residents was negatively impacting businesses and neighborhoods. The clean-up events, according to Mayor Bass, not only help restore the city’s appearance but also promote solidarity among the citizens. Hundreds gathered to scrub away graffiti, pick up litter, and rejuvenate areas directly affected by civil unrest. The image of downtown Los Angeles has often been marred by negative perceptions, compounded by incidents of violence and looting during protests. Business leaders and public officials, including Bass, assert that many of these actions were carried out by opportunists among otherwise peaceful protest crowds. In response to these assertions, volunteers from diverse backgrounds have pledged to help rehabilitate the public spaces, showcasing a united front against the chaos. The 'Shine LA' initiative is described as not only a matter of aesthetics but as a proactive response to create a safer and more inviting atmosphere ahead of international events. Mayor Bass related the importance of gathering to demonstrate community spirit and care for one's city, especially with the world set to observe Los Angeles in just a year’s time. Both local businesses and participants in the clean-up efforts hope that they can change the narrative surrounding downtown and encourage more visitors in the future.