CLICK BELOW TO REDISCOVER HUMANITY
A DECADE+ OF STORYTELLING POWERED BY THE BEST WRITERS ON THE PLANET

Hipsters In El Barrio

Last week I read a story that had me shaking my head in amazement. In East LA a non-Hispanic small business opened up in the traditional Latino section of the city that had some in the community protesting its existence. If you are wondering what type of business had the audacity of opening in the neighborhood was it another tattoo shop, smoke shop, check-cashing place or a Rent-a-Center? No a hipster coffee shop named Weird Wave Coffee.

The cry of anti-gentrification was the root of this protest; interestingly these same streets represent the sites of legendary anti-Vietnam protests where held, approximately 50 years ago. So what is gentrification? Gentrification – I know this word never came up in a spelling test for me, otherwise I would have spelled it incorrectly; is a process of renovation of a deteriorated urban neighborhood by the influx of more affluent residents.

The negativity associated with gentrification is the displacement of lower-income families, and some argue new businesses, usually representing the corporate sector impact the uniqueness and charm of the targeted neighborhoods. As far as disruption of the uniqueness of the neighborhood; I would sympathize with any disapproval sentiments if a traditional business was being displaced in LA’s Chinatown or Olvera Street by the corporate neon signage of a Starbucks, 7-11, Taco Bell or Panda Express.

In this scenario, Weird Wave Coffee owners opted to invest opening a small business, not in a typical affluent location, but in this case El Barrio. Instead of being applauded by the entire community; some have taken an active stance of voicing their displeasure. What’s hypocritical of this reasoning is rather than protesting in front of the nearby corporate franchises of Subway and/or Starbucks they targeted a coffee shop.  I guess some of the Homies don’t care for Hipsters.

Embrace Diversity….

Al
Al "Skip" Solorzano
SKIP is a recognized expert in the field of diversity with keen ability to build strategic alliances, and successfully expand supplier diversity initiatives. He has consulted with multiple client sectors including pharmaceutical, insurance, manufacturing, health care, telecommunications, utilities nonprofit organizations, business entities and employee groups. As a facilitator and learning consultant presents unique perspectives to develop solutions; and promote qualities to successfully work with others through diversity, team-building and leadership development. Solorzano has been featured as a presenter at conferences sponsored by such entities as: AT&T, The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Social Security Administration. A former Governor appointee and member of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials; Solorzano has been recognized by United Way as Most Influential Hispanics of the Bay Area; and a recipient of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Corporate Advocate of the Year award. Skip’s career endeavors as a corporate liaison, community leader and entrepreneur, provides the unique insight to write on an array of subject matter from learning processes; diversity; with a shared humorous perspective of life.

DO YOU HAVE THE "WRITE" STUFF? If you’re ready to share your wisdom of experience, we’re ready to share it with our massive global audience – by giving you the opportunity to become a published Contributor on our award-winning Site with (your own byline). And who knows? – it may be your first step in discovering your “hidden Hemmingway”. LEARN MORE HERE


CONVERSATIONS

TAKE STROLL INSIDE 360° NATION

TIME FOR A "JUST BE." MOMENT?

ENJOY OUR FREE EVENTS

BECAUSE WE'RE BETTER TOGETHER