View Communities

South Central Los Angeles

Feb. 17, 2021
Population: 815094
Cultural or Historical Interests
Aside from the University of Southern California student and faculty population, South Central is home to predominantly Black and Latinx populations. More than 50% of the population are immigrants and noncitizens with limited English proficiency, typically hailing from Mexico and El Salvador. The 1992 Los Angeles riots marked South Central as a symbol of class and racial divides amongst low-income Black and Latinx populations.
Community Activities and Services
Although painted by the 1992 LA riots as a dangerous area, South Central is home to a culturally-rich immigrant community. Due to rising real estate prices, gentrification is slowly taking over communities. South Central is home to a variety of community organizations that are committed to limiting gentrification and displacement. In terms of transportation, South Central is connected to the Metro and has access to the 5 highway. It is not a walkable community.
Economic or Environmental Interests
My community is located in Historic South Central, a neighborhood in Los Angeles that is located 10 minutes away from Downtown Los Angeles. With 19, 474 people per square mile, Historic South Central has one of the highest densities for the city of Los Angeles and in the country. South Central is heavily trafficked and is home to extreme pollution and unsafe air quality. From healthy and affordable food options to affordable housing or job opportunities, the South Central area lacks resources.
Community Needs and Concerns
South Central is a food desert where there are more liquor stores (119) than grocery stores (92) to which the LA Times has stated, "It's easier to buy a soda than an apple". Grocery stores are far and few between. Limiting factors like lack of transportation and cost of groceries have contributed to not only a food-insecure but also a growing obese population. The lack of food and healthy food in South Central affects negatively affects the health of individuals and their family members.
Show More

Notice about cookies and privacy