Changemakers 2024: Advancing Social Change and Preserving Culture in an Evolving Urban Landscape

Sat 3/16/2024 • 9:30AM - 12PM PDT

Terasaki Budokan Center

“Before World War II, there were over 40 historical Japantowns in California alone. Today, LA’s Little Tokyo is one of just four remaining in the entire U.S.” – Little Tokyo Service Center brochure 

Asian Pacific Alumni of UCLA is proud to co-host with UCLA Alumni for the Changemakers 2024 event, “Advancing Social Change and Preserving Culture in an Evolving Urban Landscape,” takes the Changemakers series into the community of Little Tokyo, Los Angeles and uplifts the work of Bruin leaders at the Little Tokyo Service Center. Founded in 1979 by Japanese American activists, this organization provides culturally relevant social welfare and community development services to people in need, contributes to community revitalization and cultural preservation in Little Tokyo and the Southland, and provides resources to neighboring Asian Pacific Islander and other low-income communities.  

Join us, as we continue to celebrate the power of alumni voices in effecting positive social change. Our featured speakers will discuss the founding and evolution of the Little Tokyo Service Center and share insights into how the Center responded to discriminatory property laws and immigration policies, and the displacement of elders and low-income families caused by gentrification. They will also share stories of how they ignited self-determination for Little Tokyo by preserving legacy businesses, working with local residents to ensure greater community control, and engaging in critical solidarity work with other communities of color facing housing insecurity to build over 1,000 affordable housing units.  

Come as you are and be a part of this enlightening conversation, as we explore the power of collective action in creating a better, more equitable world.  

You can learn more about how local residents, business owners, and community leaders, including the Little Tokyo Service Center, mobilized against gentrification in Little Tokyo through this podcast episode featuring UCLA Professor Paul Ong.  

 Date: Saturday, March 16 at 9: 30 am

Location: The Terasaki Budokan Center
249 S Los Angeles St
Los Angeles, CA 90012

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