LOS ANGELES - Danny Trejo has taken issue with Kim Kardashian's recent remarks concerning the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles.
In an interview with TMZ, Trejo argued that Kardashian's focus on the plight of imprisoned firefighters was misplaced at this critical time.
"At this moment, discussing whether inmates should be paid more or less is irrelevant, Kim. Concentrate on those who have lost everything to the fires," Trejo emphasized, reminding her that her own situation is privileged. "You still have everything!"
Kardashian had used her Instagram platform last week to voice support for a wage increase for incarcerated firefighters who are risking their lives to combat the wildfires.
"Imprisoned firefighters are currently paid only $1 per hour for their dangerous work, a rate that has not been adjusted since 1984," Kardashian highlighted. "This rate has not kept pace with inflation, nor has it been raised despite the increasing intensity of fires and the tragic loss of life."
"This year, there was a proposal to raise their wages to $5 per hour, but it was rejected at the last minute," she continued. "I am urging [California Gov. Gavin Newsom] to take unprecedented action and increase the pay for incarcerated firefighters to a level that reflects the sacrifices they make to safeguard our lives and property."
The use of incarcerated individuals as firefighters in California has been a contentious issue, with critics questioning the ethics of the practice.
Last year, Californian voters rejected Proposition 6, which sought to end forced labor in prisons, including the use of inmates in wildfire suppression efforts when there is a shortage of professional firefighters.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) states that incarcerated firefighters can earn up to $10.24 per day, with an additional $1 per hour during active emergencies, paid by Cal Fire, regardless of their skill level.
Trejo, who has a history of personal struggles with incarceration, now devotes his time to counseling at-risk youth and helping them overcome substance abuse as an intervention specialist.
He pointed out that the primary motivation for prison firefighters is the reduction of their sentences, with much of their income going towards restitution. Trejo argued that even with a wage increase, the inmates would not see significant benefits.
"Listen, I apologize, but our priority must be to put out the fires first, and then we can address everything else," Trejo concluded.
The Source: This story is based on information from previous FOX 11 reports, TMZ, and City News Service.
