As Los Angeles battles the devastating wildfires raging across the region, actor and humanitarian Danny Trejo has issued a direct and stern message to his fellow celebrities, urging them to shift their priorities. Trejo’s stance? The focus should solely be on helping victims rebuild their lives, rather than leveraging the tragedy to spotlight personal or political causes.
Trejo Criticizes Celebrity Responses
Speaking to TMZ, Trejo expressed his frustration with Hollywood elites, including Kim Kardashian, who he believes are detracting from the immediate needs of wildfire victims. While many celebrities aim to bring attention to important issues, Trejo emphasizes that now is not the time for “soapboxing.” Instead, the focus should be on uniting as a community to provide relief for those who have lost everything.
Kim Kardashian’s Push for Inmate Firefighter Pay Raises
Trejo specifically addressed Kim Kardashian’s recent comments on the low wages paid to inmate firefighters risking their lives to battle the wildfires. Kardashian, known for her activism and advocacy for criminal justice reform, called out the system for paying incarcerated firefighters as little as $1 per hour. She highlighted the heroism of these individuals and argued for fairer compensation, noting that an attempt to raise their pay to $5 an hour was rejected shortly before the fires erupted.
While Kardashian’s intentions may be well-meaning, Trejo believes her timing is problematic. “This isn’t the moment to politicize the issue,” he said. Trejo acknowledged the inmates’ contributions but stressed that their primary motivation lies in earning reduced sentences rather than monetary gain.
A Former Firefighter’s Perspective
As someone with firsthand experience—Trejo served as a firefighter during his time in prison—he offered unique insights into the reality faced by incarcerated first responders. According to Trejo, while increased wages might sound like a solution, much of the money earned by inmates goes toward restitution payments, leaving them with little to pocket.
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For Trejo, the system’s promise of reduced sentences outweighs the financial incentives, and he believes that should remain the focus.
Arsonists Face Harsh Consequences
Trejo also addressed the potential role of arson in the catastrophic fires, warning that those responsible will face severe consequences if convicted. He noted that arsonists are viewed with disdain in prison, comparing their level of infamy to that of child molesters. “This is a crime of sheer devastation,” Trejo said, emphasizing the irreparable harm caused by these fires, which leave thousands homeless and destroy entire communities.
A Divisive Debate Amid a Crisis
The debate over inmate firefighter wages adds a layer of complexity to an already dire situation. On one hand, advocates like Kardashian argue for systemic reform to ensure these “heroes” are compensated fairly. On the other, voices like Trejo’s call for immediate, unified action to assist those directly impacted by the wildfires.
Regardless of the differing perspectives, the wildfires’ devastation cannot be overstated. Thousands of residents have been displaced, and communities face the daunting task of rebuilding from ashes.
Trejo’s Plea for Unity
Ultimately, Trejo’s message is one of solidarity. As Los Angeles grapples with this unprecedented disaster, he urges everyone—celebrities and citizens alike—to set aside personal agendas and focus on what truly matters: helping the victims recover and rebuild their lives.
Stay tuned for updates on the wildfire relief efforts and the ongoing debate surrounding inmate firefighter wages.
