West Los Stories

West LA has stories that never made the history books. We're changing that. Through oral histories and video interviews, West Los Stories documents the generational voices of Venice, Santa Monica, Culver City, and the broader Westside — centering Brown, Black, and Indigenous communities and other unsung culture bearers who help shape the identity of our Westside neighborhoods.

Jaime Escalera
Rancho Lopez Family

Jaime Escalera, the grandson of the famous Rancho Lopez founder, Cressy Lopez, shares thoughts and memories about his family's history.

Cressy Lopez's grandson Jaime Escalare at Rancho Lopez Site

Culver City, Venice

Jaime Escalera — Lopez Ranch Family

Jaime Escalera, the grandson of the famous Rancho Lopez founder, Cressy Lopez, shares thoughts and memories about his family's history.

April 10, 2026

Venice

Jes One— Venice 2 the Valley

Jes One, USK founder & Venice graffiti pioneer, on the alley that built a crew, family roots, and choosing your path. West Los Stories oral history.

December 28, 2025

Culver City

Barbara Carrasco – Renowned Chicana Artist

Barbara Carrasco, a world-renowned Chicana artist and activist from Culver City, CA, is celebrated for her cutting-edge murals that vividly explore cultural, feminist, and other social justice themes.

July 2, 2024

Profiles, Venice

Lindsey Haley – Chicana Journalist & Playwright

Lindsey Haley is a Chicana journalist, playwright, poet and lowrider. She moved to Venice in her adolescence and still lives on the West Side today. Lindsey was writing cover stories for Lowrider Magazine at its peak in the 80’s, and still expresses her culture through writing.

December 19, 2023

Profiles, Venice

Richard Cortez of Venice

Richard shares some memories of Venice and the Westside from a #Chicano experience. From the days before the #90freeway to daily hood life, activities, understandings, and social challenges. He also touches on understandings about "gang" life, addiction, and police brutality.

November 20, 2023

Culver City, Shorts

Shorts: Culver City Gardener Sergio Inzunza

Sergio Inzunza, a Culver City gardener with 26 years under his belt, offers reflection on West L.A.'s changes over the decades.

October 26, 2023

Profiles, Sotel

Angie Behrns- A True West LA Native

Angie Behrns, esteemed elder of the Gabrielino Tongva tribe,shares glimpses and experiences of early West LA through the vibrant lenses of both her Tongva and Mexican heritages

October 6, 2023