A
People’s Guide to LA is an attempt to map sites of racial and
class struggle in Los Angeles’ history and landscape. Looking
at the history of California, and especially Los Angeles, it is clear
that race has been one of the central forces shaping the development
of the region. From the arrival of Spanish missionaries, to the development
of Chinatown, to the beating of Rodney King, race is one of the key
factors that have influenced the region’s economy, landscape,
and history. While there have been some efforts to memorialize the history
of various communities of color, as seen in the Dunbar Hotel, Olvera
Street, and Little Tokyo, these sites emphasize the contributions and
historical experience of particular groups. While we think this is invaluable,
we also think there is a need to emphasize struggle, because when you
think about, that’s what race is really all about....more |