Culture, community and camaraderie all converge here to create an atmosphere of joy: Leimert Park, the proverbial heart of South Central Los Angeles. Drum circles, double-dutch sessions and pervasive incense smells are constant reminders of childhood and home, and an identity established through the gathering of individuals who for decades have brought their creativity and ideas to Leimert Park. The present-day pandemic has reminded us of our natural human inclination to gather with one another in community. Leimert Park Village epitomizes community, my community. The interconnectedness of people, art, diversity and intellect makes it a place I’ll never again take for granted.
Established in 1927, Leimert Park is one of Los Angeles’ first planned communities. Under the restrictive covenant laws at the time, Leimert Park and other communities were restricted to whites until 1948, when these laws were overturned by the Supreme Court. Prior to and during this time, African Americans had begun to migrate to Los Angeles due in large part to the probable reality that they could buy a home and get a good paying job. From the late 1940s to present day, this community has established an identity defined by artists, businesswomen and businessmen, and families seeking to raise their children in a community that truly felt like home.
When I visit Leimert Park, I experience the vibrancy of what it means to find fellowship with other people and create moments of joy in community.
When I visit Leimert Park, I experience the vibrancy of what it means to find fellowship with other people and create moments of joy in community. I am reminded of the excitement I feel when I see children, parents and grandparents dancing to the music from the popular coffee shop DJ on Degnan Boulevard. Equally, I’m filled with curiosity about the street vendors lining Degnan on Saturdays selling everything from the latest detox tea to skin products I use myself.
The common thread among us during the past year is that we have missed out on continually being surrounded by authentic community. What I once took for granted has come to the forefront of my lived experience as a necessity: the need to be truly connected. Leimert Park has reminded me of that reality. It is a special place where you may find me on a Friday night in front of Sole Folks, grooving to a live music performance or strolling along Degnan on a Sunday afternoon, taking it all in — the culture, community and camaraderie in the “Park.”
Ethan Smith ’11, M.S. ’16 is COO of Treehouse Co-Living located in the Los Angeles area. He earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in the LMU Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering.