Blacks In Los Angeles Upset By City Transit Plans

History of neglect in black neighborhoods continues in new rail line project

Community leaders in Los Angeles are raising alarm over plans to leave out Leimert Park, the heard of black culture in the world-famous city, without a transit stop on a new rail line project that would connect South Los Angeles to the city’s business hubs – downtown, the airport and Hollywood. And it wouldn’t be the first time. Major transit project in the 20th century was the story of how black neighborhood have historically been carved into pieces, cutting them off from wealthier parts of the city. The planned Crenshaw rail line was supposed to better span the entire Los Angeles County. Some residents and community activists say elected officials have betrayed those plans. “This is an old story,” said famed broadcaster Tavis Smiley, who has lived and worked in Leimert Park since the 1980s. “I detest when government gives short shrift to people of color. If they don’t figure out a way to make sure this stop is included, there’s going to be outrage in this community.” (New York Times)

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