Estuardo Mazariegos and Jose Ugarte, both immigrants from Latin America, are vying for a city council seat in South Los Angeles. They arrived undocumented as children and have established themselves as community organizers. Both are committed to representing all constituents equally, including Black residents who have expressed concerns about the change in leadership.
Ugarte, the front-runner in the race, received 39% of the vote in the June primary. Born in Oaxaca and a member of the Mazateco Indigenous group, Ugarte has spent most of his life in South L.A. He aims to be a voice for Black residents and emulate current council member Curren Price, who is known for his pro-Latino stance. Despite a recent controversy over failing to disclose income, Ugarte remains focused on community issues.
Mazariegos, co-director of the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment, was born in Guatemala. He emphasizes community engagement and is committed to honoring and building a future for Black residents. A past misdemeanor conviction has shaped his understanding of law enforcement issues in the district.
“I want to be called the most pro-Black Latino council member that the city really has,” Ugarte said.
Council District 9 includes areas like the Convention Center and USC. Residents face challenges such as high poverty rates, illegal dumping, and a lack of grocery stores. The district’s demographic shift to a Latino majority has led to political tensions. The election represents a battle between L.A.’s political establishment and the rising power of the Democratic Socialists of America.
Ugarte has garnered endorsements from Price and the L.A. County Democratic Party, along with significant financial support. Mazariegos, endorsed by local leaders and political organizations, focuses on tenant rights and anti-displacement advocacy. Ugarte’s candidacy emphasizes the importance of Indigenous representation, especially following a past audio leak scandal involving racist remarks.
“Organizing is about ‘always having open ears to the community,’” Mazariegos stated.
With commitments to increase police accountability and expand council representation, Mazariegos highlights his background as a ‘community insider.’ Both candidates pledge to prioritize working-class concerns and maintain accountability, with local organizers determined to hold the future council member accountable to community needs.
Leave a Reply