Only the mayor can save La Carreta now!

This past Saturday I trekked through tourist-crowded community haven Olvera Street on my way to LA Plaza de Culturas Y Artes and the LéaLA Spanish language book festival, when I spotted the latest rebel to fight the Man: the iconic La Carreta donkey, “El Burro” or George, his real name.

I introduced myself to his ride-or-die, (and owner) Richard Hernandez. “I drew a cartoon about La Carreta being evicted in CALÓ News. That was over a month ago. What’s your situation now?” I asked George, who was unresponsive.

Richard told me it was one day past their eviction deadline, and they were posted up, taking it day by day. “So far they (the El Pueblo Commission) haven’t said anything.” I asked him what his plan was, and he said that instead of riding off into the sunset, he and George are standing their ground.

They are hoping the restless townsfolk will reach out to Mayor Karen Bass and make their case, as he feels she can resolve this issue of the expired lease and the recalcitrant Commission head.

According to Richard, the Commission Head talked the LA City Council into reversing its decision supporting the right of La Carreta to stay where it’s been- for over 60 years! For now, he and George will continue their decades-long fight to entertain Angelenos and turistas alike, and loyally stand guard over the entrance to historic Olvera Street.

Mayor Karen Bass’s IG account is @mayorofla and her official website is https://mayor.lacity.gov/