Los Angeles Times Readers Respond to Op-Ed on Skid Row Conditions

Two readers submitted letters to the Los Angeles Times responding to a May 19 guest commentary by Vijay Gupta on Skid Row. Mike Sovich of Glendale wrote that the commentary delivered an "eloquent gut punch" and that readers should feel both shame and compassion. He stated that people need to acknowledge the suffering of those on Skid Row and provide hope in any way possible.

Sovich added that volunteers and donors can each play a small part in uplifting the homeless, both individually and collectively. Katherine King of Venice thanked Gupta for his perspective on the resiliency and needs of people living on Skid Row. She noted that his compassionate view is needed, along with the music he provides to the unhoused and to concertgoers at Disney Hall.

The original commentary by Gupta appeared in the Los Angeles Times on May 19, 2026.