The state of California has formally acknowledged South Los Angeles as a center for Black art and music. As reported by Kailyn Brown of the LA Times, the next initiative is to establish a monument celebrating this newly designated cultural district. Karen Mack, founder and executive director of LA Commons, emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, “Black people have experienced quite a level of erasure in South L.A. A lot of people can’t afford to live in areas that were once populated by us, so to really affirm our history, to affirm that we matter in the story of Los Angeles, I think is important.”
The Historic South L.A. Cultural District covers approximately 25 square miles, bordered by Adams Boulevard to the north, Manchester Boulevard to the south, Central Avenue to the east, and La Brea Avenue to the west. With the designation now in place, Smallwood-Cuevas and LA Commons are focusing on the monument, deliberating whether it should be a gateway, bridge, sculpture, or another form.
Anthony Lane, a critic for the New Yorker, explored an exhibition highlighting Peter Strausfeld’s distinctive movie poster art, noting its significant influence on film. Strausfeld’s posters, which eschew photographic imagery in favor of linocut prints, are known for their stark lines and minimal but impactful color use. One notable example is the 1973 poster for Claude Chabrol’s “Red Wedding,” featuring only two figures and a striking palette of black, white, and red.
Christine Jacobson, a rare book curator, sheds light on the often-uncredited role of women in the creation of classic literature. In 1897, Henry James required assistance due to rheumatism and enlisted Mary Weld through a secretarial college. Despite Weld’s superior performance, she was likely paid less than her male predecessor, reflecting a broader trend of women’s contributions being undervalued.
Palestinian student Leqaa Kordia, involved in Gaza protests at Columbia, has been detained by ICE for nearly a year. Sam Judy reports for Mondoweiss on her recent health crisis and the ongoing efforts to secure her release. “While we are relieved that Leqaa is out of the hospital, we still have no idea what her medical condition is and what happened to her for the last 3 days,” stated Abushaban on behalf of her family, highlighting the urgency for her release.
