Historic South Los Angeles has been officially designated California’s first-ever Black Cultural District, marking a major milestone in the recognition and preservation of Black history, culture, and economic contributions in the United States.
The designation was approved unanimously by the California Arts Council, according to a newsletter published on the website of State Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, who announced the decision during a press conference and community reception held at the California African American Museum.
The newly established Historic South LA Black Cultural District acknowledges South Los Angeles as a long-standing epicenter of Black cultural life, home to influential artists, historic churches, iconic music venues, and well-known soul food establishments.
The designation is intended to protect these cultural assets while opening new pathways for investment, tourism, and community-led economic development.
Cultural Preservation Meets Economic Opportunity
Senator Smallwood-Cuevas described the move as both a symbolic and practical step toward equity and inclusion.
“This designation uplifts the stories, traditions, and creativity rooted in South LA while ensuring they remain protected,” she said. “It also opens the door to new investments and partnerships that amplify the unique voices of South Los Angeles.”
Under California’s cultural district framework, the designation provides access to funding opportunities aimed at preserving cultural heritage, supporting local artists and innovators, and strengthening Black-owned businesses. The California Legislature has approved $3 million in state funding to support the installation of cultural markers and monuments within the district.
Local business owners and community leaders say the recognition has already generated excitement, with many viewing it as a catalyst for increased visibility, job creation, and sustainable growth.
A Strategic Moment Ahead of Global Events
The timing of the designation is seen as especially significant as Los Angeles prepares to host major global events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. State officials believe the cultural district will position South LA as a destination for visitors seeking an authentic Black cultural experience during these international gatherings.
Beyond tourism, the initiative is also framed as a counterbalance to a broader national climate in which diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programmes have come under pressure.
“At a time when federal actions are putting cultural institutions at risk, California is charting a different path—one rooted in inclusion, equity and respect for communities of colour,” Smallwood-Cuevas noted.
Years of Advocacy and Community Engagement
The designation follows years of advocacy and grassroots organising led by Senator Smallwood-Cuevas in partnership with LA Commons, a community engagement nonprofit. The process involved extensive public outreach to ensure residents, artists, and business owners played a central role in shaping the district’s creative vision.
South Los Angeles is home to California’s highest concentration of Black residents, businesses and cultural landmarks, yet until now, no officially recognised cultural district in the state represented a historically Black community. While California currently has 14 cultural districts, the Historic South LA designation is the first to centre Black heritage explicitly.
Community leaders attending the designation event included representatives from the Vision Theatre Performing Arts Center, Leimert Park Merchants Association, Los Angeles City Planning, LA Commons, and the offices of Mayor Karen Bass and several city council members.
A Model with Global Resonance
For observers beyond the United States, including across Africa and the wider diaspora, the designation highlights how policy, culture and community organising can intersect to preserve heritage while driving economic renewal.
Supporters say the Historic South LA Black Cultural District could serve as a model for recognising and protecting culturally significant Black communities worldwide.
As Senator Smallwood-Cuevas told residents and stakeholders: “This is your moment. You made this happen—and we will stand with you to preserve cultural spaces and build economic revitalisation for generations to come.”
