Latino Cultural Center

Executive director of Centro Cha, expressed excitement about the Latino Cultural Center at Cesar Chavez Park and its tourism and community benefits.

A Centro C.H.A. staff member said Latinos are 44% of the city and the center will create belonging for immigrants, seniors, and youth.

A Cabrillo High School worker said Latino youth need spaces to feel proud of their identity amid fear and attacks on the community.

A CSULB student said the center would give young people a place to say 'I belong here.'

A Jordan High School student said the center lets future generations know their roots matter.

A Centro C.H.A. business navigator described small-business workshops and know-your-rights programming the center would host.

A West Long Beach parent of a young daughter said the center would create safe family spaces for generations to come.

Centro C.H.A.'s executive director thanked city staff and said 'we are making history today.'

A resident since 1972 recalled the 1970s Centro de la Raza effort and a rejected 1976 cultural event request, calling this 50 years in the making.

A District 5 promotora said the center is 'bigger than a building' — an investment in unity and hope.

A longtime District 1 resident and promotora thanked council members and said the center will preserve culture and support community education.

A promotora said the center will preserve traditions and give youth a safe, positive space.

A District 2 resident said the center is 'not only a building' but a space for education, healing, and belonging.

A District 7 resident called the center 'a plus all the way around.'

A speaker urged the council to 'make history' and give children a place of pride.

A CSULB economics professor and immigrant's daughter said cultural infrastructure is community infrastructure with real economic impact.

The founder of Casa Guerrero said the center will expand education and economic opportunity for the Latino community.

Interval House's Latino legal director and 50-year resident said the center is 'a dream for the Latino community.'

Interval House's director called Centro C.H.A. and Jessica Quintana uniquely capable of leading the vision.

An Interval House community educator said the center represents the community's stories, heritage, and future.

A District 2 resident said the center will offer economic support, health resources, and a safe place for families.