AfroLA

Series on Eaton Fire Recovery

Corinne Ruff, Elizabeth Moss, William Jenkins, Fallon Brannon

Wildfires erupted in Los Angeles in early January 2025, consuming thousands of structures, including homes. Later, when residents were allowed to assess the damage and salvage any remains, AfroLA was there too. Throughout the year, the news outlet’s coverage focused on families in predominantly Black communities, who were disproportionately affected by the destruction. The coverage included practical advice, such as how to safely clean and salvage belongings, and rich accounts of survivors’ experiences in areas destroyed by the Eaton fires such as Altadena and Pasadena. 

“In a crucial moment, AfroLA provides the service that this community needed — not just in the heart of the fire emergency but in the aftermath as well,” a judge wrote. 

“AfroLA acts as a community champion by staying with the story and compassionately unpacking the past, present, and future implications of this tragedy.”

Another judge noted how AfroLA’s reporting went beyond the typical response to tragic news. 

“It takes a special mindset and focus to support a grieving and in-need community as a daily resource, helping the community unite and move forward,” the judge said.

Read the Winning Work

Your house is still standing. Now what? Staying safe returning to a burned home Jan. 20, 2025

Collective supports Black families impacted by Eaton Fire, helps raise nearly $20 million for recovery Jan. 22, 2025

Doctor first, fire survivor second Feb. 11, 2025

The kids are alright? How kids are coping with the loss of homes and schools to Eaton Fire Feb. 21, 2025

Three months later after the Eaton Fire, Black Altadeneans wrestle with ‘in-between’ period April 16, 2025

Insurance delays and denials leave Eaton Fire survivors in limbo April 21, 2025