South Los Angeles was alive with sound, soul, and celebration on May 10, as families from across the city gathered at the Michelle & Barack Obama Sports Complex for the Mother’s Day Music Festival—a free community event hosted by Councilwoman Heather Hutt (CD10) in partnership with Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Councilmember Curren Price, and the Jenesse Center for Domestic Violence Intervention and Prevention.
From the first note to the final encore, the festival delivered a full day of music and memories honoring the resilience, love, and power of mothers across generations. With show-stopping performances by Leela James, Rahsaan Patterson, 1500 or Nothin’, Trinere, Sonora Dinamita, Las Catrinas Mariachi, Adriana Milanes Brothers, the Fernando Pullum Performing Arts Band, and DJ D-Nice with his mother also in the audience, attendees were treated to an unforgettable cultural and musical experience.
But the real heart of the event came from the mothers and families who showed up in full force—and in full joy.
Cynthia Jackson, 62, a retired City of Los Angeles employee who worked for the Department of Water and Power for over three decades, called the event “awesome.”
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“All the nice roses they gave out, the T-shirts, and the free snow cones—it was really nice,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to next year. All I ask is they put coverage over the chairs—it was really hot today! But other than that, I really, really enjoyed it.”
Jackson attended the event with her daughter and granddaughter, creating what she called a “multigenerational memory.”
“They should do this more often to bring all the generations together,” she said. “Let us come out with our kids and our kids’ kids. It’s an event we would look forward to every year.”
Her daughter, Kimberly J. Franklin, 33, works with the Abundant Birth Project, an initiative focused on supporting Black maternal health.
“It was a really great event to get out, not have to pay, and not have to fight with a whole bunch of crowds,” Franklin said. “It was a beautiful tribute to all the moms. I’m a mom, I’ve got my mom here, and one on the way. A lot of people can’t say that. It means everything.”
For Jasmine Washington, it was the performances that stood out. “I loved hearing Rahsaan Patterson and Leela James,” she said while cradling her daughter and holding a bouquet of flowers. “This was an elevated event. The vendors, the entertainment—just everything was so well put together. I’ve been to city events before, but nothing like this.”
Another mother, Shana Perry, brought her child along for the festivities and reflected on what it meant to feel seen and celebrated.
“I thought it was great,” she said. “The lineup of artists was incredible—Rahsaan Patterson was amazing. And the roses given to moms? So thoughtful, especially for single mothers. A lot of us don’t have the means for our kids to buy us gifts, so this experience was a gift in itself. We came out, had a good time, and felt special.”
Councilwoman Heather Hutt, the driving force behind the event, shared a deeply personal message from the stage, reflecting on her own experience as a mother of three.
“As a mother to three sons, I know well the unconditional love, patience, and sacrifices that motherhood entails,” she said.
“It’s a journey filled with joy, challenges, and a love that knows no limits. The nurturing you provide not only shapes your children but also our communities. You are caregivers, teachers, mentors, and cheerleaders. You juggle countless responsibilities, often putting your own needs aside to ensure the well-being of your loved ones.
“You are the cornerstones of our families, and an unwavering source of strength. We recognize the profound impact you have on your communities, and celebrate your resilience, your compassion, and your unwavering love.”
Her words resonated with the crowd, many of whom nodded in agreement, holding tight to their children, mothers, or cherished memories.
“This Mother’s Day, we’re coming together to celebrate the women whose love, labor, and resilience hold our communities together,” said Councilmember Curren Price. “Their strength deserves more than recognition—it calls us to act.”
Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson added, “Our moms in South L.A. and all over the city do so much to improve the world for every generation. Their work models for us the best we can be.”
Proceeds from the event benefited the Jenesse Center, an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and supporting survivors. In addition to raising awareness, the festival offered a space for unity, joy, and healing.
As the sun set over Obama Boulevard, the message was clear: our mothers deserve celebration not just once a year, but every day—and South L.A. knows how to show up for them.
