VivirLatino

Managing Editor’s Note : The following guest post is by Fabiola Sandoval, an LA based writer, photographer and friend. I feel really blessed that she has joined us here through her words and giving us a little West Coast perspective. Please join me in welcoming her. -Mala

In Los Angeles the opening La Plaza de Cultura y Artes takes place April 16th, located in the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, home to La Placita Olvera.  A place of cultural and spiritual significance for many Mexican, Mexican – American, and Central American Angelenos among other communities, and a highly visited location for non – Angelenos, it is considered one of LA’s treasures; currently undergoing redevelopment, as in other areas of the city of Los Angeles.

From La Plaza’s website:

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is the nation’s premier center of Mexican American culture and arts. Providing an experience unlike any other, LA Plaza’s interactive exhibits and dynamic programs invite visitors to explore as well as contribute to the ongoing story of Mexican Americans in Los Angeles and beyond. Located near the site where Los Angeles was founded in 1781, LA Plaza’s 2.2-acre campus includes two historic and newly renovated buildings (the Vickrey-Brunswig Building and Plaza House) surrounded by 30,000 square feet of public garden.

The land and site have another story, as do most places. The angle of the location’s history includes the Gabrielino-Tongva Indian village before 1781, when the settlement that entailed the birth of Los Angeles began. During the construction of La Plaza it is believed that more than 90 human burials were discovered, resurrecting the knowledge that the area was indeed the oldest recorded cemetery in the city and highlighting the complex history of Los Angeles.

The conundrum lies in the precipitous time line of the construction of La Plaza, in its historic location, and the county of Los Angeles’ response to the Tongva community’s pleas for support in investigating and relocating the remains.

The location brings forth the complex relationship that ties Mexican, Mexican – American  and Indian history in Los Angeles.  There’s an opportunity, that seems currently trampled by the County Supervisor, Gloria Molina, and other invested players in the time-line of La Plaza, disrespecting a process that affirms the preservation of  culture, allowing for a  diverse and complex history that recognizes place, preservation of Native culture, and memorializing.

Let’s unveil complex history and celebrate rich diversity, affirming the multiple layers, struggles and beauty that entails the City of Angels.

Citing: City’s Birthplace Becomes Battleground Over LA History, 89.3 KPCC

Irina Contreras activism and info compilation from the – Gabrielino – Tongva Community press release, and other research.