Take a moment. Now try to imagine 14,000 acres. That’s over 21 square miles. More than 10,000 football fields. Now imagine it all set ablaze. Homes, businesses, schools, and libraries—everything turned to ash in a fury of flames. It’s difficult to fathom such devastation, but that has been the reality for Altadena, California, with the ongoing Eaton Canyon Fire. Since the fire broke out on January 7, 2025, it has scorched the land, affecting the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. Sadly, much of the Black history of this area has been consumed in the flames.
Altadena has played an important role in the Great Migration and the larger African American story. Today, at HBCU Leggings, we reflect on the rich Black history of Altadena, the impact of the devastating Eaton Canyon Fire, and how you can help the residents of this historic community in their time of need.
Britannica.com
Altadena and The Great Migration
To truly understand the significance of Altadena’s current struggles, it’s important to first look back at the history of Black families in the area. During and after World War II, as part of the Great Migration, many Black families sought new opportunities in California. Altadena offered an escape from the racial tensions and segregation that had plagued the South, and it became a place of opportunity for those looking for better living conditions, more space, and a safer environment to build their future.
But the decision to settle here was not an easy one. In 1960, Altadena was a predominantly white community—about 95% white, with only 4% of the population being Black. As Black families began to move in, they were met with resistance. However, the passing of the Fair Housing Act in 1968, which prohibited racial discrimination in housing, created new opportunities. It was this act that helped shape Altadena into the thriving, diverse community we know today.
Altadena became a home to African American intellectuals, artists, and professionals. In addition to the proximity to the cultural and professional pulse of Los Angeles, it offered a sense of independence, away from the segregated neighborhoods of the city. Prominent Black families found refuge here, contributing to the cultural, educational, and economic life of the community. The area quickly became a safe haven for musicians, writers, and educators—people whose work helped shape Los Angeles. Over the years, Altadena’s demographics continued to evolve, but the rich history of African American involvement has always been at the heart of the community.
Porterville Fire firefighters work hotspots using hand tools and a hose with a small line to conserve water on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 during the Eaton fire. (Photo by Sarah Reingewirtz, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)
The Impact of the Eaton Canyon Fire
On January 7, 2025, the Eaton Canyon Fire erupted in Altadena, quickly escalating into one of the most destructive wildfires the area has ever seen. To date, the fire has consumed over 14,000 acres, destroying homes, businesses, and cultural landmarks. Nearly 10,000 structures have been severely damaged or completely destroyed. As firefighters continue to battle the flames, the emotional toll on the community continues to grow.
For the Black community of Altadena, the loss has been devastating. Many families whose homes were destroyed had lived in the area for generations. Homes that were passed down where families celebrated milestones and built legacies have been lost. This fire didn’t just destroy homes; it erased irreplaceable landmarks that held the essence of Altadena’s African American history. Local schools, churches, and community centers, which had been pillars of the Black community, have suffered severe damage. These were the places where Black residents of Altadena nurtured their children, worshipped together, and supported each other—now they’re gone, along with so much of the community’s heritage.
The destruction has been emotional. As these spaces go up in flames, so does a part of the spirit of Altadena—a community that has long stood as a symbol of Black perseverance, unity, and achievement. But while these structures have been lost, the community’s strength and resilience remain. Altadena’s people are determined to rebuild and rise from the ashes, but they need support to do so.
Poitier with his best-actor Academy Award, for Lilies of the Field, 1964. From Austral/Zumapress.com; Digital colorization by Lee Ruelle.
The Black Legacy of Altadena
Altadena has long been a haven for Black excellence. It is the home of some of the most respected figures in American history, particularly in the fields of entertainment and literature. Two names that immediately come to mind are Sidney Poitier and Octavia E. Butler, both of whom have left a lasting mark on the world and on the legacy of Altadena.
Sidney Poitier, the Academy Award-winning actor and activist, called Altadena home. Poitier’s contributions to the film industry broke barriers for Black actors and helped pave the way for future generations of Black talent. His quiet strength and achievements were felt not only on the big screen but in the heart of the Altadena community, where he represented dignity, grace, and the possibility of progress.
Octavia E. Butler, one of the most influential science fiction writers of her time, also lived in Altadena. Butler’s work, which explored themes of race, power, and humanity, has had a profound impact on the literary world. Her stories resonated with readers around the globe, and in 1995, she was one of the first Black women to receive a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship grant. Altadena was a place where she could hone her craft and produce works that would shape the future of literature.
These two individuals are just a few examples of the intellectual, artistic, and professional excellence that has flourished in Altadena. It is a place where Black talent has always been nurtured, where dreams have been realized, and where community members have worked to uplift each other and future generations.
How You Can Help
As Altadena struggles to recover from the devastation of the Eaton Canyon Fire, it’s important for us to come together and support the community in their time of need. Thousands of families have lost their homes and their livelihoods. Here’s how you can help:
1. Donate to Relief Funds: Several local organizations have set up relief funds to support those affected by the fire. Your donations will help provide housing, food, medical expenses, and other basic necessities for those who have been displaced. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a huge difference. You can donate to the Eaton Fire Relief and Recovery Fund through the Pasadena Community Foundation.
2. Volunteer Your Time: If you're in the area, there are opportunities to volunteer and assist with recovery efforts. Whether it's cleaning up debris or providing emotional support at shelters, your time and efforts can help rebuild the community. Visit the Pasadena Education Foundation website for volunteer opportunities.
3. Raise Awareness: The more people know about the devastation, the more support the community will receive. Share the news on social media, encourage friends and family to contribute, and help spread the word about how others can get involved. Follow us on Instagram for more updates @HBCULeggings
The Future of Altadena
The legacy of Altadena’s Black community is too important to let it fade into the ashes The community has faced many challenges throughout its history, but its spirit remains unbroken. Now, more than ever, it is time for us to rally around the residents of Altadena and help them rebuild—not just the homes and schools, but the culture and history that make this community so special.
At HBCU Leggings, we honor the legacy of Altadena’s Black community. We are inspired by leaders like Sidney Poitier, Octavia E. Butler, and countless others who have made their mark on the world. Just as Altadena has inspired generations, we strive to keep that spirit alive through our products that honor the legacy of Black America.
If you’re passionate about supporting Altadena and HBCUs, visit us at HBCULeggings.com to shop our collection. Together, we can help Altadena rebuild and preserve the spirit of Black excellence that has always been at the heart of this incredible community.
Love and Leggings,
Bibi
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bibi Mama is a first generation Beninese-American actress born and raised in Mansfield, CT. Growing up she watched her father, an English professor and author, continue the Yoruba oral tradition through storytelling, which inspired her. She earned her B.F.A. from Howard University and recently finished her MFA at the Old Globe/University of San Diego MFA Graduate Acting Program.