Posted on 02/23/2024
Dear Neighbors,
As we draw near the conclusion of African American History Month, we continue to celebrate the remarkable achievements of leaders across various domains, including government, arts, music, and beyond.
Throughout this past week, our Council Chambers has welcomed influential leaders who stand as pillars in their respective fields, embodying excellence and inspiring hope.
In case you missed it, here are some of the highlights.
Tuesday, Feb. 20
Patrice Rushen is considered one of the world's preeminent jazz pianists, Through the years, her gifts caught the attention of some of our generation’s musical giants, including Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson, Carlos Santana, Sheena Easton, and many more.
In addition to her prowess as a pianist, Ms. Rushen is a gifted singer, record producer, and songwriter who also lent her natural talents and skills as a musical director for prestigious events, including the GRAMMY Awards, Emmy Awards, and NAACP Image Awards.
Ms. Rushen now channels her creativity into composing for film, television, and orchestras. However, she will forever hold a special place in District 9’s heart, as a fan favorite at the beloved Central Avenue Jazz Festival.
Wednesday, Feb. 21
Lauren Halsey is a force of nature not only in the art world but also an advocate, who is making serious strides to help the community that raised her.
Despite initially aspiring to be a basketball player, Ms. Halsey found her true calling in art, where many of her installations are inspired by the neighborhood where her family has resided for generations. Notably, she has art displayed in top art institutions including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Modern Art, and the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, among many others.
Reflecting on the resilience of Los Angeles, this South Central darling set out to make a greater impact outside of the art world by founding “Summaeverythang.” This community center in South LA is dedicated to offering organic produce, aiming to address food insecurity while promoting Black and Brown empowerment.
Friday, Feb. 23
U.S. Senator Laphonza Romanique Butler (D-Calif) made history by becoming the first African-American member of the LBGTQ+ community to serve in the United States Senate.
I will always recall our senator as a powerhouse for working families and a titan in the realm of labor. More than a decade ago, Senator Butler, who was then the president of SEIU Local 2015, stood shoulder to shoulder with me and my team, championing the $15 minimum wage increase, which paved the way for paid sick leave.
It is undeniable that without Senator Butler's steadfast dedication, this transformative policy might never have come to fruition, depriving millions of Angelenos of its life-changing impact.
Today, this fearless leader continues to champion progress in the Senate, ensuring a brighter future for us ALL. Angelenos can rest easier knowing that California will persist in leading the way toward hope and opportunity where every voice is heard, every worker is treated with dignity, everyone is respected no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation, immigrants are valued regardless of their origins, and every dream is within reach.
In solidarity,
