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Leslie Berestein Rojas, Immigration Reporter

Southern California is home to many new immigrants -- about a third of L.A. County residents are foreign born. Here, immigrants are creating an evolving definition of "American." It's this evolving America that I explore, telling stories that help us all deepen our understanding of how immigrants and their families are changing the region, and how L.A. changes them.
I've been reporting on immigrants and immigration for more than 15 years. Before coming to KPCC/LAist, I reported on immigration along the U.S.-Mexico border for the San Diego Union-Tribune, where I followed migrant trails along the desert and told the stories of those who disappeared along the way. I've also reported for Time, People, the Orange County Register and the Los Angeles Times. My reporting has taken me to Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Telling immigrants' stories is a personal thing, by the way: I was born in Cuba, and raised on the Eastside of L.A.
Have any questions or suggestions? Let me know.
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The Palisades Fire erupted on Jan. 7 and went on to kill 12 people and destroy more than 6,800 homes and buildings.
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People moving to Los Angeles are regularly baffled by the region’s refrigerator-less apartments. They’ll soon be a thing of the past.
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Experts say students shouldn't readily forgo federal aid. But a California-only program may be a good alternative in some cases.
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Distrito Catorce’s Guillermo Piñon says the team no longer reflects his community. A new mural will honor local leaders instead.
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The program is for customers in communities that may not be able to afford turf removal or water-saving upgrades.
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More than half of sales through September have been to corporate developers. Grassroots community efforts continue to work to combat the trend.