In this powerful episode of The Social Primate, host Eddie Aguirre is joined by Alejandra Martinez to explore what it means to reclaim the story of Southeast LA—on our own terms. As ICE raids tear through our neighborhoods and outside narratives try to define who we are, this episode pushes back. It centers real voices, real memories, and the everyday beauty of communities fighting to stay whole.
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Eddie and Alejandra reflect on events like Bell Open Streets and the Southeast LA Community Map project, which collects and uplifts stories that rarely make the headlines. Together, they show how parks, street corners, and storefronts become sacred when layered with history, connection, and care.
What unfolds is a mosaic of community-sourced stories—moments that may feel small but speak volumes. This isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about resistance. It’s about storytelling as a way to preserve dignity, reclaim identity, and remind the world: we are more than what they choose to see.
00:27 Addressing Community Challenges
01:03 Introducing Alejandra Martinez and Her Project
02:08 The Southeast Los Angeles Community Map
03:39 Personal Stories and Community Experiences
04:47 Reflecting on Southeast LA's Identity
06:20 Community Mapping and Storytelling
07:34 Exploring the Southeast LA Community Map
08:52 Stories from the City of Bell
18:03 Stories from the City of Maywood
25:48 Stories from the City of Bell Gardens
33:21 Personal Reflections on Biking
33:48 Community Biking Trends
35:03 Huntington Park Memories
43:32 Southgate Stories
46:34 Cudahy and Lynwood Recollections
48:35 LA River Experiences
58:29 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
