In a series of landmark initiatives across the United States, communities are making strides to honor Black history and safeguard key cultural landmarks. From Los Angeles to New Jersey and Omaha, local movements are ensuring that Black American contributions are not only celebrated but preserved for future generations.
In The News
Communities in Los Angeles, New Jersey, and Omaha launch new initiatives to honor Black history and preserve cultural landmarks for future generations.
Inside Nappily Naturals, herbs are blended and packaged for neighborhood customers. For co-owner Sharon Askia, opening the shop eight years ago was about meeting a need close to home.
“We actually had to go across town to nourish our bodies,” Askia said. “And so when we opened up eight years ago, we said, you know, we have to have something in this community.”
That community is historic Leimert Park, long recognized as a cultural center for Black Los Angeles and a hub for art, music and activism.
A large swath of South LA is now considered one of California’s newest cultural districts, dedicated to recognizing the area’s rich Black history. The designation comes courtesy of the California Arts Council and marks the third cultural district in Southern California, joining the ranks of Little Tokyo and Chinatown.
Before a joint session of the California Senate and Assembly, Gov. Gavin Newsom delivered his final State of the State address on Jan. 8, fulfilling a requirement of the state Constitution that the governor report annually to the Legislature.
Sen. Monique Limón (D–Santa Barbara) was sworn in as the 50th president pro tempore of the California State Senate on Jan. 5 at the State Capitol, marking the occasion with a series of official and ceremonial events.
Before a joint session of the California Senate and Assembly, Gov. Gavin Newsom delivered his final State of the State address on Jan. 8, fulfilling a requirement of the state Constitution that the governor report annually to the Legislature.
In December, incoming California Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) announced her leadership and committee appointments for the 2025–2026 legislative session, including several members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).