BRU Announces Hunger Fast for Justice [1]

Speaking before the MTA's Budget Committee, Esperanza Martinez, lead organizer of the Bus Rider's Union announced the start of the Hunger Fast for Justice.  In order to graphically illustrate the hard choices that low-income riders will have to make if the fare increase goes through, members of the BRU will fast starting on the morning of May 20th.

Putting the Fare Increase into a real life context

Esperanza Martinez spoke passionately about the effects of the fare increase saying, "This fare increase isn't happening in a vacuum". While the mostly black and brown riders of Los Angeles struggle with a city unemployment rate of 13.2%, rent increases and mounting cuts to social service programs, the MTA proposes to raise the fares 20% taking a monthly bus pass from 62 dollars a month to 75 dollars.

The Bus Riders Union Asks Board Members to join the Hunger Fast for Justice

Speaking of experiencing the sacrifices that will soon be forced upon low-income riders, Esperanza Martinez asked the board members to fast for a day. Then Esperanza called for them to join the BRU encampment at the historic Placida Olvera at the corner of Los Angeles St and Alameda where the BRU will be  until they march in protest and solidarity to the MTA's monthly board meeting at 8:30 on May 27th.