Hola Boyle Heights! Your community reporter, Alex Medina, is here to share some happenings in and around the neighborhood to get you out and about!
Check out the latest from the Beat
The student encampment at Cal State LA is now in its third week, and campus President Berenecea J. Eans has begun to sit with protestors to negotiate. Conversations so far have explored protestor demands for CSULA officials to disclose any Israeli investments from the school. This comes just days before commencement ceremonies occur at the LA Convention Center early next week. You can read the full story, covered by news reporter Andrew Lopez, here.
Owned and operated by graffiti artists, La Calle Sucia at 2720 E. Cesar E. Chavez Avenue has become a hub for the local graffiti scene in Boyle Heights. Its three owners were born and raised in the neighborhood. They hope to grow the business to host art classes, events, and more for the community, along with being the place to go for those looking for supplies. Our youth reporter, Anakin Rivera, has the full story here.
Last weekend, The Wellness Center celebrated a decade of service to the Eastside community with a celebration full of everything from musical performances and activities to community resources and opportunities to learn more about the organization’s work and offerings. With over a hundred in attendance, it was an event full of fun, smiles, and thankfulness for The Center. You can read more about the celebration here and check out the organization’s resources online.
As always, visit our website and social media channels for the latest from your local news source.
Happenings in the Heights
Saturday, May 18th
It’s that time of the month for the Queer Mercado at the East Los Angeles Civic Center (4801 E. 3rd Street). The event, which runs from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m., brings a multitude of merchants, food vendors, live music, art, and much more to the Eastside. You should stop by for a good time if you’re in the area.
As I’m sure you know, there’s always something going down at The Paramount (2708 E. Cesar E. Chavez Avenue), and this weekend is no different. The neighborhood venue is hosting another MySpace-era Emo vs. Pop-Punk music video party this weekend that’s sure to get you dancing to the greatest hits in both genres. This 21+ event will have unique drinks themed to the night, with doors set to open right at 9 p.m. You can grab a ticket for about $25 online.
For all those who love to bike, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes (501 N. Main Street) is collaborating with Metro Bike Share to bring you a community ride with a historical twist. You’ll start at LA Plaza at 10:30 a.m. to view an exhibition focused on the vibrant history of 18th and Grand, with filmmakers and co-curator Steve DeBro there to walk you through everything. Then, event attendees will bike out to and from the Olympic Auditorium, with DeBro there to provide real-time insights into everything about the iconic building. The ride’s about 6 miles, so you’ll be back around 1 p.m. Those interested can register for free online.
Sunday, May 19th
That 18th & Grand exhibition at LA Plaza (501 N. Main Street) is coming to a close this weekend, and the center’s hosting a “Last Jam” closing celebration right at noon for those hoping to get one last look before it’s all gone. There will be lots of special guests speaking, food and drinks to enjoy, and a DJ spinning oldies for you to get up and dancing while you connect with some Olympic Auditorium stars. The event is free, and you can read more about it here.
Also at LA Plaza (501 N. Main Street), Tlahtoltapazolli is hosting Nahuatl workshops every Sunday from noon through 3 p.m. with everything you’ll need to learn the language provided by the group. Teachers provide lessons using sound and research-based teaching methodologies. You can register and learn more about these classes online.
Over in El Sereno, the neighborhood’s Community Land Trust is hosting an event for the community to tend to ‘Ooxoor’ Aweeshko Community Garden (5154 Wadena Street). Bring your own tools to help care for the land, and food will be provided for those involved in the effort. You can RSVP for the family land tending day, set to run from 10:30 a.m. through 2 p.m., by messaging @escuelita_ooxor_aweeshko on Instagram.
Out on 1st Street, Casa 0101 (2102 E. 1st Street) is hosting a presentation performance with local teenagers highlighting modern-day issues related to HIV/AIDS. Audience participation is encouraged, and there’ll be a post-performance discussion as well. A catered reception for the event starts at 3 p.m., and performers take the stage at 4 p.m. You can register for the event online.
As always, let us know what you think of the newsletter and send us events to include in future editions. I hope you have an amazing weekend!
