Wildfire Survivors Honored with Special Float at 137th Rose Parade

A Tribute in Motion: Wildfire Survivors at the 137th Rose Parade

On New Year's Day in 2026, a unique float will grace the 137th Rose Parade, showcasing the strength and resilience of families affected by the devastating wildfires in California. This year, the California Community Foundation (CCF) has partnered with the Black Freedom Fund (BFF) to sponsor a 55-foot float, titled "Rising Together," to honor the lives forever changed by the Eaton and Palisades fires of 2025.

Honoring Lives Lost and Strength Gained

The float serves as a powerful tribute to the 31 people who tragically lost their lives in these wildfires and symbolizes the courage and solidarity of more than 13,000 families who faced the destruction of their homes. The visual representation on the float includes a phoenix rising from ashes, signifying rebirth and community strength. It also incorporates greenery from California native plants and elements that reflect the beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains, stark reminders of the landscapes that suffered due to these ferocious fires.

Gina Clayton Johnson, who lost her home, shares her emotional journey, reflecting on how the strength of her community has been vital in her recovery process. "What has carried me through is the strength of the community that raised me," she remarks. Johnson’s story is echoed by many who will stand alongside the float, including families, volunteers, and local leaders, each embodying the essence of resilience and mutual support following the fires.

A Collective Healing Experience

The collaborative project is not just about the parade; it's an act of healing and unity. Preparations for the float have included survivors and community members participating in decorating and pre-parade activities. Such involvement highlights the importance of connection, allowing those affected by the fires to share their stories and support one another through creative expression.

"Riding on this float is not about celebration; it is about honoring our neighbors who are still grieving and rebuilding," emphasizes Johnson. The float functions as a reminder of the challenges faced but also as a beacon of hope for future recovery.

Sue Kohl, another survivor from Pacific Palisades, shares her sentiments, saying, "It's an incredible honor to ride on the float representing wildfire survivors. Today, I ride to celebrate resilience and the unbreakable spirit of a community that refuses to be defined by loss."

Community Response and Ongoing Support

In the wake of the wildfires, the CCF stepped up quickly, mobilizing the Wildfire Recovery Fund that saw contributions from over 48,000 donors, exceeding $100 million. This prompted immediate assistance for those affected, providing emergency aid, mental health services, and other necessities. In total, the foundation distributed more than $60 million to aid local nonprofit organizations that play crucial roles in the recovery process.

Moreover, the float's design takes into account the disproportionate impact that the fires had on Black and Latino communities, emphasizing that this juncture represents a pivotal moment for systemic change toward an equitable recovery.

The community's needs remain significant — with many still grappling with rebuilding costs, insurance delays, and emotional trauma. The float's presence serves as a reminder of these ongoing struggles, emphasizing the necessity for sustained support and public awareness long after the embers have cooled.

Looking Ahead

As the Rose Parade brings together diverse community members, it underscores the message that through unity and collective action, they can emerge from adversity stronger than ever. The float, dedicated to the memory of the lost, honors their lives while inspiring hope for a brighter tomorrow. Miguel A. Santana, President and CEO of CCF, aptly captures this sentiment, stating, "Los Angeles will rise from these ashes," a testament to the resilience of its communities.

The upcoming parade not only celebrates the New Year but also serves as a poignant memorial and rallying point for recovery efforts, reinforcing the principle that in togetherness lies the path to healing.