[LOS ANGELES, CA] The power of cultural pride was portrayed in Los Angeles as thousands came together to celebrate the newly christened New Orleans Corridor this past Juneteenth weekend.
On Saturday, June 17th at 11 am, Councilwoman Heather Hutt, along with the Los Angeles Jazz Festival, hosted the community for the dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly named “New Orleans Corridor”; a twelve-black stretch of Jefferson Blvd. From now on, 1977 W Jefferson Blvd. (Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church) to 2920 W Jefferson Blvd. (Harold & Belles Creole Restaurant) will pay homage to the historical migration of Creole and African American families from Louisiana to their settling in Los Angeles during a violently tumultuous period in the South. Mayor Karen Bass, New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell, Inglewood Mayor James Butts, and other dignitaries joined Councilwoman Hutt to mark the occasion.
“In a state where over 32 countries are trying to erase history, it’s an honor and privilege to bring the New Orleans Corridor to Los Angeles,” said Councilwoman Hutt. “Together, we are taking a stand in saying that you cannot erase history in our City. Culture is a huge part of the tapestry of Los Angeles. Our hopes are that when you see these corridors, you feel a sense of pride and belonging amongst our community.”
Following the ribbon-cutting, over two thousand constituents joined Councilwoman Hutt, Mayor Bass, Mayor Cantrell, and Mayor Butts in second-lining down the New Orleans Corridor. The New Orleans Brass Band, and a local brass band from the Fernando Pullum Youth Arts Center in South led the community in dancing along the corridor. Festivities continued with a free series of live music performances, featuring award-winning artists from both cities, including Irvin Mayfield, Terrance Martin, and 1500 or Nothin. KBLA 1580’s First Things First show host, Dominique DiPrima emceed the concert.
The day’s events were produced by the Los Angeles Jazz Festival, led by Founder & President Martin Ludlow. The Los Angeles Jazz Festival will debut on Dockweiler Beach in August 2024.