The city of Los Angeles approved a resolution to declare August as Immigrant Pride Month as a counter to Arizona’s controversial SB 1070 that gives law enforcement the power to questions one’s legal status.

“This is a city that celebrates all people wherever they come from,” said Councilman Jose Huizar, one of the author’s of the proposal. “No one should be held to a higher standard simply because of characteristics someone may think they have that is different from the norm, whatever that norm may be. That norm is very diverse, it comes in different colors, different flavors, and so, we hope this law is struck down.”

Although this only applies to August 2010, it is clear the city of Los Angeles is trying to celebrate its diverse roots, even though it still does some business with Arizona;  working with an Arizona-based company that has the dubious distinction of operating our red light cameras at intersections and a lesser evil, SuperShuttle.

via the LAist.com

August 6 – 29, 2010
Fri & Sat @ 8pm
Sun @ 5pm

Get ready boys and girls for another thrilling episode of El Verde! Born as an alien from the not so far away world of Mexico, mild mannered Arturo Sanchez came to the United States to live an ordinary life. But after a freak elote accident, Arturo became… El Verde!!

www.casa0101.org for tickets and info.

Los Angeles ~ CA

Overcoming Barriers ~ 1996 S.Y.E.T.P. Mural Project ~ Alex “Man One” Poli ~ 1800 Fashion Ave. ~ Long Beach

“Overcoming Barriers” speaks visually of the needs and reasons people immigrate to the U.S.A. The United States, a nation founded by immigrants, has always been the promised land of hopes, dreams and opportunities. Many immigrants face barriers and negative stereotypes. “Overcoming Barriers” depicts ways immigrants break down barriers by their positive contributions to the economy, society and environment.

(Continued)

Venice ~ CA

Had the pleasure of seeing Plutocracy in LA for the first time since the 90′s…  back when I was living in the Bay Area and going to shows in teen centers and various all ages venues.  If you are a fan of NO LE$$, Kalmex and the Riffmerchants, ETO, Spazz, Agents of Satan then you know what I’m talking about.  Their set was fast and intense in a crowded space fogged with blood, sweat and flying fists.  Bastard Noise of course put on a great display of power and noise.  Definitely the loudest band I’ve seen in a while.  If you haven’t been to The Blvd Cafe on 2631 Whittier you are missing out.  Be sure you get there early, the set times are all off.  I missed Lack of Interest but I was able to snap a photo of the Legend himself:

At 83 he’s still grinding.   No one can ever tell me they’re too old for this shit.  See you at the next show.

We recently filmed Sram CBS WAI paint a piece in Downtown Los Angeles. Check out the video on GraffHead.com.

Canned Heat ~ Los Angeles ~ CA

This Saturday, SMEAR is showing off new work at Mar Vista’s Buckwild. His latest show, titled “Cream of Meat” will be on view here until August 4th. The artist, who’s as talented on and off the streets and not to mention prolific, tells us he’s been working hard on new pieces, which show a maturation of his style, though he promises he’s as committed as always to being “grimy and stinky.” Come party with a nasty little gathering this Saturday at Buckwild, 12804 Venice Blvd. from 6:00 P.M. to midnight. See you there!