L.A. Is a City That Resists by Existing
L.A.’s full name is El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula. “The Town of Our Lady the Queen of Angels of Porciúncula.”
It starts with childhood memories tattooed in my mind. Los Angeles is one of the most beautiful, culturally diverse cities in the world, one can find. Over 140 countries represented. Over 200 languages heard. Ancestral home to the Chumash and Tongva Indigenous tribes.
L.A. is an immigrant sanctuary of community. Where many Black folks migrated from the South. Where folks crossed borders and deboarded planes. L.A. is where the sun shines and it rains. Where nature meets beaches. And the ocean greets palm trees.
Early memories of the Santa Monica pier.
Los Angeles love, rooted, and raised.
Visiting my grandmother and mom working at different places in Downtown L.A. I would later work across from the Staples Center.
Family trips to the Griffith Observatory to see the stars. Later, riding the RTD with my mom, holding bus transfers in our palms. Passing liquor stores, donut shops, and fruit carts. The mini-mall capital of the world. My dad would take me with him to LA swap meets and the Fashion District.
The city wrestles with rest. Architecture, sports, music, food, and film manifest. L.A. vibes, Hollywood sign, and flashing lights. Capture the action and L.A.’s nightlife.
Where people have left their families behind to make their dreams come true. Hard work, sacrifice, and all things brand new. Lifestyle of hope, grit, and grind. Dreams of becoming in Los Angeles in due time.
Growing up in L.A., we’re standing on the shoulders of communal roots. I wasn’t invited in by one community. I was welcomed by all. Diversity shapes the fabric of our city’s cloth.
Rose(s) that grew from concrete.
Growing up in the City of Angels & Roses. You’re one-of-one. Nobody can tell you who you are or who you will become. They can read off the stats. You challenge every one.
Our culture is rich and welcoming, deeper than the ocean floor. Learn where someone’s from before judging who they are. You have no idea the strength and sacrifice made in their scars.
LA is in our DNA
🇪🇬🥭🇬🇾 www.monakhalil.com
Why My Coaching Makes a Difference | An Intentional Journey Towards Your Highest Self
Name Dipped In Mango LLC | Mona Khalil Coaching and Consulting
