The latest West Los stories

Barbara Carrasco, born in El Paso, Texas, in 1955, moved to Culver City and grew up in the Mar Vista Gardens housing projects. Encouraged by her strong mother and a supportive nun, she pursued art despite academic challenges. Her diverse upbringing and early experiences with adversity and support shaped her dedication to social justice. Carrasco's remarkable art career includes vibrant murals addressing social justice themes, notably "L.A. History: A Mexican Perspective." She worked with Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, reinforcing her commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.

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.
Lindsey Haley Chicana Writer

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.
Richard Cortez of venice sitting on a bench

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.
west los angeles gardner man

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.

Angie Behrens- A True West LA Native

Angie Behrens, 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
Frank Casillas of Santa Monica

Frank Casillas: A Living History of Santa Monica

Frank Casillas is not just a 95-year-old man. He's witness to the hidden history of Santa Monica..

Frankie Duarte— Westside Boxing Legend

Frankie Duarte is a West Los legend and treasure. Legendary boxer, great guy, and also a champion outside the boxing ring.

Phyllis Castro of West LA

A glimpse into the life of Phyllis Castro who raised in West Los neighborhood of Sawtelle.
Chang - Chicano old-timer from Barrio Venice, CA

Chang: How the Venice Winos got their name

Venice old timer Chang, briefly shares how the Venice Winos click got their name.

Our Mission

At “West Los Stories,” our mission is to amplify the visibility of the culture bearers of West Los Angeles with a focus on Brown, Indigenous, Black, and other marginalized communities and cultures. Our aim is to uncover and highlight the beautiful, untapped histories that have formed the fabric of our neighborhoods in a way that mitigates the white centricity of most local historical narratives. We are committed to uplifting a deeper awareness of this territory’s history, fostering sincere representation, and using as a tool for equity and community empowerment… read more

 

My New Stories

Lindsey Haley Chicana Writer
Richard Cortez of venice sitting on a bench
west los angeles gardner man
Frank Casillas of Santa Monica
Chang - Chicano old-timer from Barrio Venice, CA