In Sacramento, a city that boasts the fourth-largest economy in the world, the stark reality of poverty is being highlighted through initiatives like the “Fight Poverty, Not the Poor” festival. Over 64,000 residents of Sacramento are living below the poverty line, and about 10,000 of them are Black. This year’s festival served as a platform for advocacy, featuring nearly 30 community organizations aimed at supporting the unhoused and low-income families.
The festival wasn’t just a gathering— it was a powerful call to action. It celebrated Black History Month while underscoring the urgent need for structural changes that can genuinely lift people out of poverty. Keynote speaker Robynne Rose-Haymer shed light on the essential role of workforce access in breaking the cycle of poverty, stressing that when basic needs like healthcare and housing remain out of reach, families suffer.
Faye Wilson Kennedy of the Sacramento Poor People’s Campaign painted a vivid picture of daily struggles. For many families, the reality of making ends meet becomes overwhelming when high rent and childcare costs pile up. As conversations around activism and support continue to grow, it’s clear that the time for change is now. In Sacramento, the old saying holds—it’s not just about what you can do, but who you can uplift along the way.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
