BY MARTA HERNANI FERNANDEZ, CHARISMA MADARANG, JESSE MECHANIC AND JACQUELINE PINEDO
Tom’s Market overlooks the intersection of Florence and Normandie — the flash point of the 1992 Los Angeles uprising.
The event had lasting effects on the South Los Angeles community that can still be seen from the lack of access to medical services, fresh produce food and affordable housing. Many lots in the area have remained empty and undeveloped for three decades after the civil unrest.
The Market, formerly Tom’s Liquor, has been a symbolic center of a debate about businesses in the area.
James Oh, the current owner of Tom’s, acknowledges the historical significance of the store and says he wants to support the local residents. “I’m here for the community,” Oh said. “What they need, I can help.”
Although Tom’s has rebranded since the civil unrest, many residents in the South L.A. community still believe there is work to be done.
Community Coalition, a local organization, works to transform the landscape of South Los Angeles by converting liquor stores to businesses that help rebuild the community in a way that is responsible and respectful. The organization also hopes to attract small businesses that will generate economic and social growth.
Marsha Mitchell, Communications Director at Community Coalition, works to transform the local landscape to ensure liquor stores have a more positive impact on the local community.
“We can partner with owners to make their liquor stores into markets that are more positive and have the ability to get groceries in a food desert,” said Mitchell.
Part of this change involves markets offering healthier alternatives such as fruits and vegetables and accepting EBT to keep food purchases accessible.
STEP INTO THE PAST
Using the Snapchat app, load our augmented reality lens to step into a portal to the past and stand in front of the market during the uprising.
 Tom’s Market was at the epicenter of the uprising and part of this iconic photograph. |
