Diverse Group Meets to Avert O.C. Civil Unrest

A new organization formed after the Los Angeles riots to prevent such an occurrence in Orange County held its first public forum Tuesday night, discussing problems ranging from homelessness to lack of jobs.

The new group, Orange County Together, brought people who knew firsthand about the problems together with people who might offer solutions. About 60 people of widely diverse economic and ethnic backgrounds took part.

“What we’re doing is taking proactive steps to prevent a riot or a disturbance, or whatever you want to call it, in Orange County,” said Fred Mickelson, a Southern California Edison Co. executive who is co-chairman of Orange County Together. “We can’t solve all the problems, but what we can do is take a different approach to looking at the solutions in Orange County.”

A common solution to almost all of the problems was getting people in the county to better understand the diverse cultures that now make up the overall population.

The panels and some of their recommendations Tuesday were:

Korean-Americans--Panelists said the Korean community in Orange County can be helped tremendously by the 321 churches that serve that community. Churches can help parishioners assimilate while still preserving their native culture, panelists said.

Jobs and industry--Panelists called for full funding of Head Start programs and more English-as-a-second-language programs. The panel said that some businesses could offer English-language classes to supplement the overcrowded ones offered by public education.

Street vendors--Panelists suggested that the League of California Cities be asked to draft a model ordinance that would allow street vendors to operate under controlled conditions.

Homelessness--Panelists said more volunteers are needed to help the homeless. More short-term and transitional housing is needed, and panelists said efforts must be made to erase NIMBY--”not in my back yard”--sentiment in Orange County.

Dayworkers--Panelists said dayworkers, who are mainly new immigrants, need help in cultural assimilation and in education about their legal rights. The panel said some city job centers, such as Brea’s are doing excellent work, but that a countywide program is needed.