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EBONY Media Launches EBONY Voices: A Short Film Reflecting on Altadena Fires

Los Angeles, January 8, 2026 – EBONY Media is proud to announce the launch of its new multimedia series, EBONY Voices, with the release of the poignant short film titled 'Standing in the Ashes: One Year After the Altadena Fires.' This compelling film serves as a reflection on the devastating Eaton wildfire that impacted Los Angeles County in January 2024, marking the first anniversary of the tragedy.

A Focus on Humanity and Community

Directed by Lyric Perez and produced under the leadership of EBONY Media's Owner and CEO Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, along with editorial content executive Cori Murray, the film highlights the personal stories of three long-standing Altadena families. The film provides a platform for these families to share their journeys through loss, resilience, and the challenging decision of remaining in a historically Black community significantly affected by the disaster.

Eden Bridgeman Sklenar articulated the vision behind EBONY Voices, stating, "Standing in the Ashes reflects what EBONY Voices was created to do—center humanity, honor legacy, and ensure our communities are not reduced to statistics in moments of crisis." This mission resonates throughout the film as it seeks to underscore the importance of cultural preservation and community cohesion, especially when facing adversity.

Personal Narratives of Strength

'Standing in the Ashes' features narratives from families such as Staci and Thomas Andrews, and community members Ronda Carson alongside her mother, Barbara Carson. Notably, the film includes Antoinette 'Toni' Bailey-Raines, recognized in the 2025 EBONY Power 100 as a Community Crusader for her efforts in co-hosting 'Altadena Talks'—a grassroots radio show and podcast initiated as a response to the fires.

The Eaton wildfire was a devastating event, claiming 19 lives and leaving behind significant destruction, with 9,418 homes and buildings either damaged or destroyed. A staggering 60 percent of affected households were Black. Recent data from UCLA's Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies reveals that 61 percent of Black households in Altadena were caught within the fire's reach. This highlights not only the immediate impact but also the long-term challenges faced by these communities.

The Impact of the Eaton Wildfire

The aftermath of the Eaton wildfire left many in a vulnerable position, especially among older homeowners, with a majority being over 65 years of age. The fires not only destroyed homes but also threatened the rich history and cultural heritage of the affected neighborhoods, prompting urgent conversations about recovery and support for these communities.

The film argues that rebuilding is more than the physical restoration of homes; it embodies the fight to preserve traditions, culture, and the rightful desire to remain within communities that families have called home for generations.

Accessible Viewing

Standing in the Ashes is now available as part of the EBONY Voices series, and it can be viewed online via their YouTube channel, demonstrating EBONY Media's commitment to providing access to these important narratives.

As EBONY celebrates its 80th anniversary, it continues to amplify the Black experience, emphasizing resilience, hope, and cultural legacy through projects like EBONY Voices. This initiative aims not only to inform but also to inspire communities to share their stories, highlighting a vital aspect of the human experience, especially in the wake of disaster.

For those interested in viewing the film and supporting the mission of EBONY Voices, visit this link.

About EBONY
For 80 years, EBONY has been a trusted voice in the narrative of the Black American experience. With eminent authority, it chronicles cultural excellence and achievement while evolving into a multifaceted global media brand. Follow EBONY's journey on social media at @EBONYMagazine on Instagram and @EBONY on X and Facebook.