WSSNews | Volume 39 No. 40

WESTSIDESTORY NEWSPAPER community organizations an- nounced the formation of Kaleido- scope Global Network this week, with a goal of confronting global and American inequality and pro- moting social justice through a framework rooted in shared moral and spiritual values.

Kaleidoscope leader Rev. Chuck Singleton of Loveland Church in Southern California outlined the organization's mission as a force for "transformation and hope" in an era of rapid change and com- plex global challenges. The co- alition comprises a diverse range of partners, including grassroots organizations, civic associations, socially responsible businesses, and educational institutions.

"We were born from heartfelt conversations among faith and civil rights leaders about the need to inspire and continue legacies of justice across generations," said Rev. Singleton. "Our mission is nothing less than to reshape the world through a deep moral and spiritual dedication to these time- less values."

Kaleidoscope Global Network Launches to Promote Justice, Equity

"We were born from heartfelt conversations among faith and civil rights leaders about the need to inspire and continue legacies of justice across generations," said Rev. Dr. Chuck Single- ton of Loveland Church in California.

Dr. Chuck Singleton, Senior Rev. of the multi-campus Loveland Church and leader of Kaleidoscope Global Network, a new interna- tional coalition of faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and commu- nity organizations.

Kaleidoscope's platform is built on seven core principles: (i) eco- nomic empowerment, (ii) youth and educational uplift, (iii) po- litical and civic engagement, (iv) global engagement, v) health and wellness, (vi) criminal justice re- form, and (vii) the strengthening of faith and family structures. In its founding document, the movement draws inspiration from religious and philosophical tradi- tions, quoting the biblical passage from Zechariah to "...adminis- ter true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another" as a guiding principle for its vision of a more compassionate society.

"To achieve its goals, the coali- tion will focus on five objectives: catalyze advocacy, provide educa- tion and build capacity, forge col- laborative partnerships, develop innovative solutions, and advance research on social issues," Rev. Singleton explains.

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Representing the 28th Senate District, Sen. Lola Smallwood- Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) brings a lifelong commitment to working families, shaped by her upbringing as the daughter of a single mother who was a military veteran and a registered nurse.

After earning her communica- tions degree from California State University Hayward (now known as CSU, East Bay), Smallwood- Cuevas began her career as a jour- nalist telling the stories of work- ing people—an experience that drew her into the labor movement and her first union role with the Newspaper Guild.

Since being elected to the Cali- fornia State Senate, Smallwood- Cuevas has made it her mis- sion to champion legislation that strengthens worker protections, expands access to justice, and uplifts historically marginalized communities.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Smallwood-Cuevas about her successes and disap- pointments this year, as well as her goals for 2026.

What stands out to you as your most important accomplishment this year?

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2025

2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas – an Advocate for Jobs and Justice

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

I'm proud of how we fought back against the Trump Administra- tion's attacks, especially on the budget, and strengthened protec- tions for workers while fortify- ing the cultural power of Black Los Angeles. Workers' rights re- mained central in my bill pack- age because my background in organizing taught me a simple truth: when workers do well, com- munities do well. With SB 464, I fought wage discrimination. With SB 648, I strengthened account- ability for wage theft and ensured statewide distribution of worker- rights information by establishing the California Worker Outreach Project in law.

I also moved forward with the creation of California's first Black cultural district in South LA. Amid gentrification, this district will protect cultural assets and bring resources as Los Angeles prepares for the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games. Establishing a Black cultural district in the face of federal hostility is a victory I'm deeply proud of a model for how tourism can uplift communities.

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