Eric Garcetti for Mayor of Los Angeles 2013

By Olivia Rubio,

 

Boyle Heights is a culturally rich neighborhood on the east side of Los Angeles. Dating back to its origins in the 18th century when it was known as Paredon Blanco, or “White Bluffs”, Boyle Heights has been a home and a haven for many immigrants settling in L.A. In a very real sense, one could say that all roads lead to Boyle Heights. A road that many immigrants have taken to create a brighter future for their children.

On Saturday, over 200 residents gathered at the parking lot of Shakey’s Pizza in Boyle Heights to support mayoral candidate Eric Garcetti in the May 21 runoff election against rival Wendy Greuel. The rally for Mr. Garcetti’s candidacy often had more of the feel of a homecoming than a mere political stopover. Eric shared with his supporters his own roots in the neighborhood, where his family settled to nurture their dreams of a bright future.

Eric’s tenure as a councilmember in L.A.’s 13th District serves as a testament to the realization of a brighter future, but his aim at that far-off horizon has not removed his feet from the soil of his home. The Boyle Heights rally was spirited and lively, brimming with the candidate’s infectious optimism (noted in grand fashion where Eric led the crowd in chants of “¡Si, Se Puede!”). This spirit and optimism spilled over to several areas of the restaurant, where scores of volunteers took to their phones to spread the word of Eric’s candidacy and his message. 

The “Team Garcetti Train” rolls on!