Why LAist Still Calls it South Central LA

LAist keeps it real, others don't. We won't judge them for doing what they're doing but semantics doesn't solve the problems of gangs and crime and education and housing and disrespect.

About three years ago the City of LA decided to officially change the name of the area known for 50 years as South Central Los Angeles to South Los Angeles. The reasoning is "South Central" had such a negative connotation that it was in people's best interest to change the name to encourage growth and investment.

Clearly the Powers That Be are more influenced by N.W.A than Shakespeare because the OG bard wrote "a rose by any other name is still a rose."

South Central has a storied and diverse history that includes the building of Watts Towers, the legacy of USC, and the home of the 1984 Olympics. The problems in the area can be fixed if those with the power actually address them in creative and substantial ways. The fact that this city is so wealthy and a large area like South Central can continue to de-volve is embarrassing.

LAist will recognize the name-change when legit improvements that actually affect LA take place. Until then enjoy one of the many songs that namecheck South Central with pride.