Rising from the ashes, a symbol of hope at the Rose Parade
NPR••nation
Key Points:
- The 40-foot Rose Parade float, decorated entirely by wildfire survivors using natural materials, symbolizes a phoenix rising from ashes, representing hope and community rebuilding after the devastating Eaton Fire nearly a year ago.
- Volunteer Darlene Leyba, who lost her home in the fire, sees participating in the float's creation as a way to reconnect with her community and honor those affected by the disaster.
- The float features 31 sunflowers, each representing a person who died in the fires, with surviving friends and family involved in placing them as a tribute and source of healing.
- Miguel Santana, CEO of the California Community Foundation, highlighted the ongoing struggles survivors face with insurance and federal aid, emphasizing the float as both a memorial and a
