“I’m concerned about what I heard and saw. It’s time to solve the problem of court funding.”
-State Assemblyman Jimmy Gomez
On Dec. 2, SEIU 721 LA County Superior Court Workers led Assemblyman Jimmy Gomez on a walkthrough of the East LA Courthouse.
Assemblyman Gomez saw first-hand how cuts have made things worse. Now, instead of serving the neighborhood, the East LA Courthouse is a criminal arraignment hub with major safety problems.
Court workers told him what’s needed: more funding and staff for all Superior Courts.
What SEIU 721 Members Said
“I’ve worked for the court for 30 years and things are worse now than they’ve ever been. It’s common for sheriff’s deputies to break up fights or tell people to calm down in line. It’s not safe for workers or the people who live in the community.”
-Sandra Williams,
Court Services Assistant III
“We’re doing our best, but the last round of cuts really hurt. Now, customers are confused about where they are supposed to go, so they come to East LA, which is often the wrong courthouse. Some people get irate and start yelling or even spitting.”
-Daniel Ceballos, Court Services Assistant III
Check out photos from the walkthrough:
Download a flyer to post at your worksite.
To find out more about the walkthroughs, contact Worksite Organizers Wanda Bellamy: (213) 610-2146 or Earl Thompson: (213) 300-5529.