United We Stand, Divided We Fall
People from every socio-economic background have been affected by what is now one of the worst natural disasters in American history. Have you paused to truly imagine the nightmare these individuals are enduring? The depth of their loss is almost incomprehensible. Picture fleeing your home with just a few possessions, knowing you might return to nothing but ashes—if you’re fortunate enough to survive. As of this writing, 24 people have not been so fortunate, with dozens more still unaccounted for. And the danger isn’t over, as the Santa Ana winds are expected to continue making the situation serious in the coming days.
The stories of those who have perished are emerging, each one more heartbreaking than the last. Some stayed to protect homes where they had raised their families for decades. One father, confined to a wheelchair, chose to remain behind with his son, who had cerebral palsy and could not evacuate. These are heart-rending examples of love, bravery, and sacrifice.
The devastation is staggering. These fires have already consumed 40,000 acres in the greater Los Angeles area. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed, and more than 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate. To put that into perspective, imagine Beaver Stadium filled to capacity—that’s how many lives have been upended. Amid this tragedy, stories are emerging of stadiums, churches, and other buildings opening their doors, and thousands of volunteers and businesses stepping up to provide necessities.
Tragedy, as harsh as it is, often becomes a great equalizer. It spares no one—regardless of race, age, or social status. But if there’s a silver lining, it’s this: Americans rally together in times of need. Neighbors have been hosing down each other’s homes, turning off gas lines, rescuing pets, and opening their homes to displaced neighbors, often at great personal risk. Organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the NFL, the Red Cross, and many others have mobilized to support the victims.
We must also acknowledge the heroic firefighters and national guard members who are battling the blazes, rescuing residents and animals, and working tirelessly despite exhaustion and separation from their families, often on the ground with hoses and hand tools. Many of these heroes come not just from across the United States but also from Mexico and Canada. Their presence reminds us that when times get tough, our neighbors become our friends. It was deeply moving to see Mexican firefighters standing on the runway with the California, United States, and Mexican flags stretched out before them before their flight to aid in this crisis. Canada, too, is returning the favor after more than 2,000 American firefighters assisted during their wildfires in 2023.
This is undoubtedly a challenging time for California’s residents, but I believe in the resilience of our people, our country, and our neighbors. Those affected by these fires will grieve, they will rebuild, and they will thrive.
The words of the 1970s song “United We Stand” comes to mind as we look toward California’s future and that of our nation:
“For united we stand, divided we fall, and if our backs should ever be against the wall, we’ll be together, together, you and I.”
Sharan Burrow’s quote beautifully captures this spirit:
“Out of the fires of desperation burn hope and solidarity.”
Californians, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rhonda S. Kelley
Executive Director
Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce