Southern California is known for a record number of Black historical moments throughout American history, and this past Friday added another moment to the record book. On 12/12, the California Arts Council unanimously voted to officially designate South LA as the state’s first-ever Black Cultural District. The decision was announced on Friday by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) while flanked by civic and community leaders during a celebratory press conference and community reception held at the California African American Museum.
“Today is a powerful moment for South LA – our community, our culture, and our future,” said Senator Smallwood-Cuevas. “South LA has been the epicenter of Black culture, activism, and creativity for generations. This designation acknowledges the deep historical contributions that Black communities have made – and continue to make – in this region.”
The newly designated Historic South LA Black Cultural District will enable the region to bolster community-driven economic development, enhance cultural preservation endeavours, and uplift Black artists, innovators, and residents who have shaped the community for decades.
Smallwood-Cuevas noted that the designation is particularly timely, given the nation’s current divisive political climate, which has threatened diversity programs across the country. “At a time when federal actions are putting DEI initiatives and cultural institutions at risk, California is charting a different path: One that is rooted in inclusion, equity, and respect for all communities of color.”
Mayor Karen Bass expressed her firm support for the cultural district designation, applauding the vote as a long-overdue recognition of the community’s profound cultural, artistic, and historical contributions. “This designation exemplifies South Los Angeles’ history of creating and inspiring generations of prominent Black artists, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders who have continued to enrich and shape the culture and legacy of Los Angeles,” said Mayor Bass. “I want to thank Senator Smallwood-Cuevas for championing this effort in Sacramento and delivering for thousands of Angelenos. With major events coming to Los Angeles, I look forward to the world visiting and experiencing the state’s first Black Cultural District – South Los Angeles.”
Smallwood-Cuevas, a longtime worker rights and racial equity advocate whose 28th District includes South LA, championed the creation of the Historic South LA Black Cultural District to preserve the community’s rich history and culture, and stimulate economic growth by promoting local Black-owned businesses, creating jobs, and drawing tourism. Senator Smallwood-Cuevas secured $3 million in state funding to support the installation of cultural markers and monuments for the proposed cultural district.
The designation follows years of advocacy, community engagement, and state action led by Smallwood-Cuevas in partnership with LA Commons, which facilitated a community engagement effort to ensure that residents and stakeholders play a meaningful role in shaping the cultural district’s creative vision.
