Public health concerns have taken a backseat in conversations about reopening our economy and returning to what we fondly remember as “normal life”. Memorial Day historically signals the unofficial start of summer and because COVID-19 cases were on the decline, many hoped it would also mark the beginning of a return to normalcy. Even before the Governor and Mayor began lifting restrictions, some residents dismissed the stay at home orders. On Memorial Day weekend, people flocked to beaches and parks in droves, hosted gatherings with more than ten people in attendance, and did so without wearing protective face masks. ... read more »

On April 29, 1992, Ward Economic Development Corp (WEDC) had just completed its first housing development – Ward Villas (WV).  In the first month, neighbors – even those who were skeptical about who would move into affordable housing – came to help us protect the newly completed 90,000 + square ft. state of the art complex from being burned or looted.  People of good will provided staples, helped to “man” the fire hoses, stood guard, help residents feel comfortable, setting in place a close community relatedness that has lasted over these last 29 years. ... read more »

With the House’s passing of HEROES Act on May 16, a bill created in effort to start negotiations on the next relief effort to the COVID-19 pandemic, many questions arise on how the legislation will aid in federal relief and assist to combat COVID-19. ... read more »

COVID-19 has taken an immediate financial toll on the City of Los Angeles. Many families are looking for ways to make ends meet and keep food on the table. Local organizations and elected officials have hit the ground to help residents access the food and resources they need safely. Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson partnered with the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to host a drive-through food pantry for more than 5,000 South L.A. Families. ... read more »

“I feel a personal connection and responsibility to every resident in my district and in the South LA community, '' said Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. As soon as this crisis hit, I took immediate action to protect our seniors as well as small businesses and their employees. We can make it through this crisis together and come out stronger in the end.” ... read more »

Congresswoman Karen Bass of the 37th District held a telephone town hall to discuss the passing of the $2 trillion stimulus package plan passed by congress. To help ease worries and concerns, the congresswoman addressed her neighbors and ways they can take advantage of the resources.  ... read more »

We are in uncharted territory locally and on a global scale. The coronavirus pandemic is already having a drastic impact within our communities and the local economy. Fresh into his second term as City Councilmember, Marqueece Harris Dawson is helping our community adapt and persevere through this Coronavirus pandemic. ... read more »

After being ignored by her state and local Democratic Party’s leadership when she called attention to the crystal meth overdose deaths of two Black gay men at Democratic donor Ed Buck’s home-- Jasmyne Cannick has won a seat on the Party’s coveted County Central Committee. On Super Tuesday, March 3, Cannick earned enough votes to secure her seat on the elected body that oversees the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. ... read more »

His last exhibit is a display of legacy and contemporary stand up African-American comedians, producers, writers, publicists and venue owners.  The exhibition honors past African American stand-up comedians and features current African American comedians of achievement. In addition, local African Americans. ... read more »

Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan Awarded recently $1.1 million to 12 community-based organizations across Southern California during a City Hall Meeting Thursday, January 22, 2020. ... read more »

Every year on January twentieth, the South Los Angeles community gathers to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lowriders, marching bands, and drill teams help make up the largest MLK Day celebration in the country. The parade brings residents together from across California before culminating with the Freedom Festival at Leimert Park. For 35 years, the Kingdom Day Parade has brought residents together along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Crenshaw Boulevard and neighboring streets to celebrate social progress, acknowledge our past and look towards our future. For four years, Councilmembers Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Herb Wesson, and Curren Price, who each represent sections of South L.A., have hosted the MLK Freedom Festival to activate Leimert Park and engage residents to create community solutions. Despite this long-standing tradition, many residents do not know the history and significance of Leimert Park and how it relates to the legacy of Dr. King. ... read more »

On Wednesday, November 13, 2019, nonprofit Clifford Beers Housing, along with the Annenberg Foundation, The City of Los Angeles, and American Family Housing, held a groundbreaking celebration for Isla Intersections. Isla will provide 53 apartments for individuals who have experienced homelessness, with 10 of these reserved for homeless military veterans. ... read more »

Following historic lows in gun violence, the month of May saw an alarming spike in violent crime. Unwilling to accept the rise in violence, including the murder of South Los Angeles’ beloved Nipsey Hussle, Counclimember Marqueece Harris-Dawson launched a robust effort to address the root causes and effects of gun violence in South L.A. Traditionally, the summer tends to display an increase in violence. This summer program meets residents where they are with the resources they need to deal with trauma and intervenes to prevent youth from joining gangs and continuing cycles of violence. ... read more »

For 14 years, Los Angeles has enjoyed the annual Taste of Soul Family Food Festival on Crenshaw Blvd. The day-long festival presented by Bakewell Media boasts over 350,000 visitors just last year alone. Taste of Soul has become an institution in the Crenshaw community and draws people from L.A. and beyond, coming to enjoy live music and entertainment on more than five stages, delicious food from hundreds of vendors and shopping – including blocks and blocks of art, jewelry, clothing, beauty products as well as a plethora of free community services. The festival is family-friendly and known for being one of the largest and safest events in Southern California. Originally founded by Bakewell Media CEO Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. in 2005, Taste of Soul has grown exponentially over the years, and Mr. Bakewell says he can’t believe it’s been 14 years since its beginning. ... read more »

South Los Angeles City Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson announced that the heartbeat of the South LA community, the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and West Slauson Avenue, would be named in honor of one of it's own, Ermias "Nipsey Hussle" Asghedom. ... read more »