The Great Los Angeles Black Count: Counting Crows or Counting Culture?
Ah, Los Angeles. City of sunshine, smog, and enough celebrities to fill a reality TV show about...well, other celebrities. But beneath the glitz and the glamour, there's a rich tapestry of cultures, and a significant thread in that tapestry is the African American community. So, the question on everyone's mind (probably not everyone, but let's pretend for a bit) is: just how many Black folks are rocking the City of Angels?
Cracking the Census Code: Numbers with a Wink
Now, some folks might be tempted to grab a magnifying glass and head down to Venice Beach to get a headcount. But fear not, intrepid investigator, the good folks at the US Census Bureau have done the legwork for us. According to the 2020 census, around 385,000 residents of Los Angeles identify as Black. That's roughly 10% of the city's total population.
But hold on to your hats, sociology buffs, because here's where things get interesting. This number only counts folks who identify solely as Black. Los Angeles, like many cities, has a thriving multiracial community. So, if we consider folks who identify as partly Black, that number bumps up a bit.
Beyond the Numbers: Black Brilliance in L.A.
So, we've got our numbers, but what does that really tell us? Well, let me tell you, it tells us a whole lot more than just how many crows are in a flock (because, seriously, crows are everywhere in LA). This vibrant community has been a driving force in the city's culture for decades. From the soulful sounds of Crenshaw Boulevard to the groundbreaking films coming out of Inglewood, Black Angelenos have left their mark on everything from music and art to fashion and food.
Think about it:
- Did you know that iconic choreographer Debbie Allen, who brought us the magic of "Fame," hails from L.A.?
- Or that the legendary comedian and actor Redd Foxx honed his craft in the clubs of South Central?
Yeah, these are just a few examples, but they paint a pretty clear picture: Los Angeles wouldn't be the same without its Black community.
The Not-So-Funny Part: But Wait, There's More!
Now, while we're celebrating Black excellence, let's not sugarcoat things. The Black community in LA, like so many Black communities across the country, faces challenges. Issues like affordable housing and access to quality education are very real.
But here's the thing: this community is resilient. They've faced these challenges before, and they'll continue to overcome them.
So, the next time you're cruising down Sunset Boulevard, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures that make LA what it is. And remember, the Black community is a vital thread in that tapestry, a thread woven with creativity, strength, and a whole lot of soul.
