“Not only stars have lost their homes”

The devastating fires in Los Angeles, rated by Michael Douglas as a “nightmare tragedy”, have generated a call for unity among American citizens. Since last Tuesday, fires have devastated thousands of hectares, leaving at least sixteen dead as of this Sunday, January 12. One of the most intense fires, known as the Palisades Fire, It continues to advance and threatens the city of San Fernando, where several celebrities have lost their luxury residences.

However, Douglas, 80, has emphasized that the tragedy affects not only movie stars, but also thousands of ordinary citizens facing devastating losses. In a video posted on his Instagram account, the two-time Oscar winner expresses his solidarity with all the victims of the fires. Although Douglas does not live in Los Angeles, he says he knows the city well and is deeply moved by the magnitude of the tragedy. “Many talk about movie stars who have lost their homes, but there are also many other people who have lost their homes,” Douglas notes in his message. It makes special mention of workers in local industries and families living on minimal incomes, who, unlike celebrities, probably do not have insurance that can help them recover from this loss.

Catherine Zeta-Jones’ husband also emphasizes that the tragedy transcends political divisions in the United States: “There are Republicans, Democrats, people from all sectors affected. This is a humanitarian problem, not a political one.”

Douglas Foundation, created by his father Kirk Douglas

Like other public figures such as Prince Harry y Meghan Markle, Douglas urges his followers to contribute donations to support those affected by the fires. In his message, he mentioned the Douglas Foundation, created by his father Kirk Douglas and his stepmother, who will make a contribution to relief efforts led by the American Red Cross.

In addition, he assures that he himself will also contribute financially. “I hope that everyone in the country, because this is not a ‘blue’ or ‘red’ state issue, understands that this is a humanitarian crisis. This is really, really a major emergency,” Douglas says. Before ending his message, he made one last plea to his followers: “Please, if you can, try to help.”

Vulnerability to climate change

The fires in Los Angeles have once again exposed the region’s vulnerability to climate change and extreme weather conditions. Beyond the destroyed mansions in exclusive neighborhoods, thousands of working families have been left homeless and face an uncertain future. Michael Douglas highlights the need to join forces to help all victims, regardless of their economic or social situation. In times of crisis like this, the actor’s message serves as a reminder that solidarity and joint action are essential to overcome the most difficult challenges.