A local run club’s promise to "take over" Leimert Park last month quickly turned into an online discussion about community respect and the shifting demographics of Los Angeles. Barrio Athletics, based in South L.A., had announced a run in Leimert Park for September 6 with language that ignited controversy.
The term "takeover" resonated deeply, especially amidst existing tensions regarding Latino residents and the displacement of Black communities in L.A. This comes at a time when the city is poised to have only two Black councilmembers for the first time since the early 1960s, and four years after leaked audio captured Latino leaders discussing how to dilute Black political power. South L.A. has been predominantly Latino for decades, and the 2020 census showed Black Angelenos making up a shrinking 8% of the city’s population. In Leimert Park, a sign of gentrification is the frequent cold-calling of long-time residents with cash offers for their homes.
Karen A. Clark, treasurer of the Leimert Park Merchants Assn., noted the community's immediate reaction. Speaking from the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center, which she co-owns, Clark explained that the association contacted Barrio Athletics founder Henry Gallardo about needing permits for a public event. "But before they could respond," Clark said, "it just took on a life of its own."
Gallardo, 25, who grew up in South L.A. as the son of Guatemalan immigrants, ultimately moved the event to Elysian Park. He offered apologies on podcasts and radio shows, which Clark described as "lovely," though they still drew online scorn. At the relocated 5K run on a rainy September morning, about 150 people from diverse backgrounds participated.
After the jog, Gallardo addressed his runners, stating he had no ill intent when choosing Leimert Park. He admitted on the “Scottie & Frnds” podcast that he "should’ve done more research" about the area's significance to the Black community.
The vibrant Leimert Park Village, recognized as the economic and cultural heart of Black Los Angeles, showcases why the original plan would have been disruptive. Its quaint business district and tiny Leimert Plaza Park are typically bustling with street vendors selling everything from African fabrics to Jamaican patties and salmon tamales. Young people use the ramps outside Neighbors Skate Shop. The consensus was that a large group of runners, regardless of race, would have altered the established atmosphere and made themselves the central focus.
Benedict Bernardez, a 50-year-old Belizean immigrant and food stall owner, said visitors were welcome regardless of race, but needed to "know where you’re visiting." He recalled facing initial skepticism when he first set up 17 years ago due to his accent and last name, but earned acceptance by demonstrating commitment to the neighborhood. Aminah Muhammad, president of the Merchants Assn. and owner of Sisters Marketplace, said advance notice "would’ve been wonderful" and questioned if visitors would "patronize us, or just run through?"
Milan Dwimfo, 41, who runs a jewelry and gift store named after her late father, a Leimert Park pioneer, expressed weariness with those "trying to fan Black-brown fires in the city at any chance." She noted, "People love a war, people love the drama," but added, "that’s not who we are."
Umaar Askia, 58, co-owner of Nappily Naturals apothecary, observed that Latino regulars in the park were unaware of the controversy until hearing from their nephews. Some told him, "I’m here all the time," not feeling uncomfortable in Leimert. Vendors interviewed did not express animosity toward Latinos or Gallardo, but expected respect for the community.
Genelle Brooks-Petty, 49, an interior designer and fourth-generation resident who opened the All Chill ice cream shop five years ago, acknowledged the "takeover" language wasn't likely literal. However, she added that "some people are sensitive" about how their "sacred space" is discussed. Brooks-Petty underscored the need for "safe emotional spaces for Black people," concluding that "It was big issues that were brought up in an inopportune time."
On a recent Sunday, a weekly drum circle in front of Sisters Marketplace, open to all, drew a diverse group of participants, including Black people, middle-aged white women, and young Latino men, who pounded to a unified beat. Osvaldo Barraquín, a 38-year-old Salvadoran immigrant from South L.A. who frequently visits the Sunday market, called the Barrio Athletics video "sad," describing it as showing up to someone's party and announcing your own, rather than joining forces.
