One block east of Figueroa , an empty lot belonging to the city of Los Angeles has been transformed into a vegetable garden and community space. the project, a long-held dream by many, has been made a reality with the efforts of community members spearheaded by Nicole Gatto.

The garden has been broken up into plots which are available to members of the community by application. A circle has also been created in the center of the space, where gardening workshops and other activities will be held.

The Opening Ceremony was attended by community members and others, including supporters of the South Central Farm which was bulldozed in 2006. Also present were Los Angeles City Council member Ed Reyes and California Assemblymember Kevin DeLeon, who were instrumental in cutting through the red tape to bring the garden to fruition.

Mr. DeLeon expressed the hope that hundreds of similar spaces will spring up all over the poorer neighborhoods of Los Angeles, making fresh and healthy food accessible to everyone.

Indigenous Tongvan drummers sing in a blessing for the new garden. Blessings are brought in from all four directions and from the earth and sky.

The Circle where gardening workshops will be held, is being created with indigenous Arroyo Seco stones.

Councilman Ed Reyes and Assemblymenber Kevin DeLeon with community member Nicole Gatto