Historic Change Looms for South LA’s Council District 9

Estuardo Mazariegos and Jose Ugarte are both vying for a City Council seat in South Los Angeles, representing a district long held by Black leaders. Their candidacy marks a pivotal moment for Council District 9, which has been led by Black council members since 1963 despite the area’s demographic shift to a Latino majority.

Both Mazariegos and Ugarte are immigrants from Latin America, having arrived in the U.S. as undocumented children. Now at 40, they have established roots as community organizers. Their campaign promises center on serving all constituents, emphasizing inclusivity for Black residents who have raised concerns about the shift in representation.

Ugarte, initially a frontrunner, secured 39% of votes in the June primary. He has served as a deputy chief of staff under the current council member, Curren Price. Ugarte, originally from Oaxaca and of Mazateco heritage, grew up in South L.A., feeling close ties with his Black neighbors. He aims to honor this bond, stating, “I want to be known as the most pro-Black Latino council member.”

Last year, Ugarte faced a $25,000 fine from the city’s Ethics Commission due to incomplete financial disclosures about earnings from his lobbying firm. He cited an “unintentional clerical error” as the cause.

Mazariegos works as co-director for the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment. Born in Guatemala, he emphasizes his commitment to diverse communities in South L.A. He prioritizes open communication with various groups, particularly Black organizations, seeking to honor and build upon their legacy.

Despite a prior misdemeanor charge in his early 20s, Mazariegos believes his past experience with the law fosters a deeper connection with constituents. He advocates for community empowerment, understanding the district’s needs firsthand through personal interactions.

Council District 9 includes critical areas such as the Convention Center and USC. It faces challenges with high poverty rates and concerns over public safety, illegal dumping, and a lack of grocery stores.

Current council member Curren Price, facing corruption charges, supports Ugarte, reflecting the longstanding political structure. Meanwhile, Mazariegos garners support from progressive entities, including the Democratic Socialists of America’s L.A. chapter.

Ugarte’s campaign has seen substantial financial backing, with Airbnb contributing $302,000 in independent expenditures. In contrast, Mazariegos relies on grassroots support, with significant backing from local educational and community organizations.

Ugarte actively seeks endorsements from Black church leaders, fostering relationships in the community. He is also poised to potentially become the first Indigenous Oaxacan council member, aiming to showcase positive impacts of immigration.

Mazariegos labels himself a “community insider,” engaging deeply with residents and advocating for charter reforms at City Hall. His campaign highlights a desire for genuine representation in District 9, focusing on listening and responding to community needs.

Regardless of the election’s outcome, local organizers emphasize the necessity of accountability. Ron Gochez, a Union del Barrio organizer, underscores the importance of prioritizing working-class issues, dedicating efforts to ensure the elected council member addresses these priorities.