Kim Kardashian is passionately advocating for greater recognition and compensation for the brave individuals battling the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. She is urging the government to increase the wages of inmate firefighters who are risking their lives to help control these blazes. The reality star believes that these men and women deserve more than mere acknowledgment; they should receive fair monetary compensation for their hard work and sacrifices.

In a heartfelt post on her Instagram Story late Saturday night, Kim tagged California Governor Gavin Newsom to highlight the plight of hundreds of incarcerated individuals participating in firefighting efforts. These inmates are working tirelessly under perilous conditions, often for minimal pay. She emphasized their dedication and the tough circumstances they endure while contributing to the safety of their communities.

According to Kim, these inmate firefighters receive a mere $1 per hour for their heroic efforts in combating the fires. She argues that such compensation is grossly inadequate for individuals who are actively working to extinguish dangerous flames and protect lives and property in the face of adversity. Their contributions should be valued far more than what they currently receive.

In her advocacy, Kim specifically mentioned the Ventura Training Center, an organization that plays a vital role in training formerly incarcerated individuals to become firefighters. This organization not only equips them with essential skills but also assists in reducing past felony convictions, thereby opening doors for these individuals to secure lucrative jobs as firefighters in the future, a significant step towards rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

As reported by The Marshall Project, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing justice system issues, California inmates are limited to earning a maximum of $26.90 for a full 24-hour shift during emergencies, making the $1 per hour they currently receive seem even more unjustifiable. This disparity raises important questions about the value placed on the lives and contributions of those who serve in dangerous roles.

One of the significant benefits for inmates participating in firefighting efforts is the reduction of their sentences. According to the New York Times, every day served in a fire crew equates to a two-day reduction in their overall sentence. This system not only provides inmates with valuable skills but also gives them a chance at a second chance while contributing positively to society.

Currently, approximately 1,000 inmates are engaged in fighting the wildfires in Los Angeles, which have ravaged over 40,000 acres and tragically resulted in at least 16 fatalities. Fortunately, to date, there have been no reports of inmate fatalities while working as firefighters, highlighting the importance of their role in these dangerous situations.

The Kardashian family remains vocal during these critical times, as Kim advocates for criminal justice reform while her sister Khloé Kardashian has publicly criticized L.A. Mayor Karen Bass for her handling of the wildfire situation—an action that many on social media deemed hypocritical given their family’s platform. This demonstrates the family’s commitment to addressing systemic issues surrounding justice and public safety.

While Kim is steering clear of direct conflict regarding the mayor’s actions, her willingness to hold the government accountable for better treatment of inmate firefighters illustrates her dedication to making a meaningful impact in this area.