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Richland Farms

Several years ago, a group of migrant farmers from Mexico and Central America took over an empty lot in South Central Los Angeles and created a community garden that became a model for urban agriculture. These farmers started out with one basic goal -- feed their families as economically as possible using knowledge and practices brought with them from the agrarian roots of Central America. Real estate disputes in 2006, however, put an end to the community garden, and the farmers were evicted from the land.

Similar to the struggles of the South Central farmers, the land and history of Compton's Richland Farms can provide a new springboard for community-based environmental practices.

We explore the land and history of Richland Farms, while taking a look back at the forms of informal urban agriculture practiced by the area's black residents during the 1950s and '60s. The story also traces the practices that were lost and then recovered by Latinos migrating from Central America, and ask what lessons they may provide for creating models of urban agriculture for future generations.

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Charro Culture - Tomas Carlos And Father
Tomas Carlos and his father describes the Charro lifestyle in Richland Farms, Compton.
From the South to Compton
Years of segregation, poverty and the collapse of the Southern Agricultural complex at the hands of industrialization and failed government policies contributed to the mass migrations of African-Americans.
Pueblos Unidos Of The Family Reynaga - Jocie Reynaga
Jocie Reynaga, resident of Richland Farms, talks about her family ranch "Pueblos Unidos" and how training horses is in part of their Mexican blood.
Eric J. Perrodin - Mayor Of Compton
Eric J. Perrodin, former policeman and now the mayor of Compton, has pride in the agriculture roots of Richland Farm and advocates for more green space outlets for Compton's youth.
Ellis Cooke
Ellis Cooke - Longtime Resident
Longtime resident, Ellis Cooke, describes his relationship with Compton and how it became a place for his family and community.
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson - Horseshoer
Andrew Johnson describes Richland Farms and how horses became an alternative to joining a gang for many young men in the Compton area.
Josh Sides - Director, Center For Southern California Studies, CSU Northridge
Josh Sides, director of the Center for Southern California Studies at the California State University at Northridge, explains the development of Compton as a result of land speculation and its proximity to the entertainment industry.
Mayisha Akbar
Mayisha Akbar - Executive Director, Compton Jr. Posse
Mayisha Akbar, executive director of Compton Jr. Posse, is recognized through her efforts to empower youth by using horses as motivational tools; she is considered one of the most influential leaders in the African-American community.
comptonhubcity
Compton: The Hub City & Bread Basket
Compton lies on what was originally part of the San Pedro Ranchero with the roots of Richland Farms dating back to the Spanish conquistadors and missionaries.
Richland Farms' Kinny and Victor
Mariela Bautista interviews Richland Farms' resident Kinny and Victor.
Meeting Mayisha Akbar
Last week, the Departures crew and I took a trip down to Richland Farms in Compton, CA and met Mayisha Akbar, a wonderful and vital part of the Richland Farm community.
Eating Healthy - a Right and Responsibility
A majority of people don't have access to healthy food, and for me healthy food is anything except fast food, soda, potatoe chips and candy.
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