Dear Crenshaw,

You are the quintessence of being rich in culture. There is no other community in the world that can duplicate your essence. Deep in history, you are the soul of the city, an enduring anthem of Black joy complete with a symphony. The echoes of African drums in Leimert Park are refrains to your song—a mighty letter of passion and victory. For it is you that is etched on hearts and embroidered on hoodies of the masses. It is you that has become the most desired backdrop of Hollywood films and sitcoms. To live within the warmth of your embrace builds authenticity. For you are the start and finish of the Marathon, with your presence being interwoven within the life narratives of The Greatest.  

Black excellence runs through your veins with warriors who have found power from a history of pain. Rising above the noise of yesterday, brigades gather in your name— obliged by the sentiments of all you are and will ever be. Commitment to preserving your natural state has resulted in riots and debates. With natives in fear of being displaced by gentrification, the edification of urban development and policy reform has become more relevant. Regardless of the trials that arise, the city remains on your side, with your name ringing bells from the West to the East Coast. Your streets are lined with stories of hope. You are booming with entrepreneurship and education from a nation that needed it the most. So, if you didn’t know, now you know, you are pretty dope. You are one of a kind, a gatekeeper of time.

Thank you for allowing me to absorb the radiance of your shine.

“The spirit and tenacity of the community is what motivated College Track to put roots down in the Crenshaw District.”