About the publisher: I was CEO of LA Care Health Plan for about 10 years when then LA County Supervisor Gloria Molina was appointed to our board of directors to represent the county. “Now it’s your turn,” I heard from all corners, because she had a reputation for tearing people apart with criticism. (“Gloria Molina, you were always a Chingona. LA will miss you,” column, March 14)
My experience was just the opposite. The supervisor challenged us with big and pertinent questions to make sure LA residents, especially their constituents, get quality care. If she thought someone was less than open or hiding something, she went after it with all her might but anything to protect Angelenos.
More than a trailblazer, Molina has always had a keen eye for the truth. She will be missed.
Howard Kahn, Altadena
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About the publisher: What’s missing from Gustavo Arrellano’s column on Molina’s legacy is how it shaped statewide California politics.
As political pundits capitulate to the San Francisco Bay Area as the powerhouse of California politics, Molina’s role should not be underestimated. She was the first Latina elected to the state legislature, and three years later became the only Latina founding member of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus.
It’s easy to overstate Molina’s influence in the world’s fourth-largest economy. Today, Latinas make up nearly half of the members of the women’s faction. Latina legislators represent 60% of the members of the Latino Legislative Caucus and have chaired it since 2018.
My only question is what the Democratic Party would have looked like today if we had sent Molina to the U.S. Senate in 1992. There would be many more Chingonas!
Sonja Diaz, Los Angeles
The author is the founder and executive director of the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute.
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About the editor: I am saddened by Molina’s terminal cancer diagnosis. She was a brilliant and courageous fighter and opened the door for all Latinas.
Molina first ran for state assembly when machismo dominated Latino and Sacramento politics. It wasn’t easy for a Latina to promote herself back then. Molina paved the way and promoted other women when she became the first Latina in the borough, on the LA City Council and on the LA County Board of Supervisors.
Molina has never disappointed or embarrassed us. She knew what being the first in something meant. She fought for her community and helped other women and Latinas run for office.
As a district manager, Molina understood the role she played in the lives of more than 100,000 unincorporated East Los Angeles residents. She was always there for us.
Thank you Gloria
Clara Solis, Los Angeles
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About the publisher: When Molina was my city councilman many years ago, I contacted her about a traffic change on our street that was causing problems. A week later I received a signed letter from her: “Mr. Smith, you are absolutely right. I will ensure. Thanks for the information.”
A week later the problem was solved.
There will never be anyone like Molina again. I hope she knows how much respect and admiration her constituents have for her.
David Smith, Los Angeles
Source: LA Times
Roger Stone is an author and opinion journalist who writes for 24 News Globe. He is known for his controversial and thought-provoking views on a variety of topics, and has a talent for engaging readers with his writing.
