Nestled between Echo Park and Westlake is the very first geographic designation by any city outside of the Philippines honoring Filipinos, Historic Filipinotown. It is home to the mural, "Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana" translated to "A Glorious History, A Golden Legacy" paying homage to many of our nation's heroes, public figures, Filipinos and Filipino-Americans alike. Though there are enclaves of Filipino communities outside of this district, this was where Filipinos planted their roots. To this day lies a diverse and thriving community full of community centers, churches, and small businesses.
From being featured on the Time Out, an online curator of city guides, the district has been commended for being one of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods in Los Angeles. There have been a wave of tourists and Los Angelenos visiting the district, improving the overall standing of businesses. However, with that comes the slow encroachment of gentrification and the threat to increase rent for residents. There is a glimmer of hope to combat this, in the form of organizations like Bet Tzedek whose attorneys and advocates have touched base with the HiFi community.
Bet Tzedek is a non-profit human rights organization that provides free services for low-income clients and those facing discrimination of any kind. Gentrifying efforts have been put on hold, as most things have since COVID-19 struck but as well as most workplaces, exacerbating the impact on residents and the economic ebb and flow of small businesses. Many small mom and pop shops have slowed down and are at risk of permanent shut down while families and tenants try to make ends meet to afford rent. Though Governor Gavin Newsom has implemented various pieces of legislation to combat this, many people still remain in the dark as to what their resources and rights are.
In an effort to help alleviate these strains from the community and decipher any complicated legal jargon, Bet Tzedek is broadcasting their free legal services to anyone financially eligible. One of UCLA's very own, Ysabel Jurado extends her legal advice to the people of HiFi, specializing in supporting small businesses as well. She and her colleagues hope to lend a hand to anyone who needs it. For more information, contact information is provided on the flyer below. Spread the word!
