LASA met at LA Plaza in February. From the general collection of LA Plaza to their current sports-related exhibition, “18 th & Grand: The Olympic Auditorium” – to city planning for the 2028 Olympics, we considered sports and culture in LA’s past, present, and future. LA Plaza curator Esperanza Sanchez welcomed LASA to LA Plaza and shared the history of the museum as well as her work on the exhibition.
LASA student Alondra reflected: “Our time at the plaza was great. I am of Hispanic descent and seeing the cultural backgrounds was refreshing. The various athletic history when seeing the uniforms of the luchadores and their matches with others. I was surprised when I saw the roller derby section and was shocked to see what little protection they had for such a dangerous sport.” From roller derby to punk concerts, the Auditorium exhibition captured the imagination. After touring the exhibition, LASA spent time in the permeant exhibitions, with students noting particular interests in the displays on immigration, the history of Cesar Chavez, and alcove on school desegregation.
Esperanza led us out to the garden for lunch, and we were joined by Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Erin Bromaghim. Her work includes multiple portfolios, one of which is planning for the 2028 Olympics here in LA. LASA student Sophia B shared: “My favorite part of this month’s activity was speaking to the deputy mayor or LA. It was so fascinating to listen to her upbringing, and how that connected to her varying career paths. Also, I loved hearing about LA’s plans for the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics because it’s so hard to imagine how such a packed city will support millions of additional people. It was extremely inspiring to see a LA native’s path to success.”
LASA thanks Esperanza Sanchez and DM Erin Bromaghim for their time. We are grateful for
their support.