Celebrating Gloria Molina Day: Unveiling the Legacy of a Political Trailblazer

On the eve of a grand celebration in Boyle Heights, the Los Angeles City Council has proclaimed August 29 as “Gloria Molina Day” to honor the late Gloria Molina, a pioneering Latina political figure. This proclamation, introduced by Council members Kevin de León and Monica Rodriguez on August 8, marks a significant moment in the city’s history, celebrating Molina’s enduring legacy.

*“We gather today to honor the memory and legacy of a trailblazer in Los Angeles, Gloria Molina,” said de León. The date coincides with the anniversary of the Chicano Moratorium, a pivotal moment that ignited Molina’s journey as an activist and dedicated public official. Molina, who passed away from cancer on May 14, 2023, at the age of 74, was the first Latina to serve as an LA County Supervisor, City Councilwoman, and California Assemblywoman.

Rodriguez described Molina as a “trailblazer” who opened opportunities for communities that had long been unrecognized. “Through her example and leadership, opportunities were afforded to other Latinas to serve in legislative bodies, not just in Los Angeles or California, but across the country,” Rodriguez added.

A Day of Celebration and Remembrance

The celebration on August 29 will feature a mural dedication ceremony at 5:15 p.m. in Boyle Heights, on Saint Louis Street between First and Second streets. The mural, commissioned by Margaret Garcia, will be unveiled in the presence of Mayor Karen Bass, de León, Rodriguez, Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Los Angeles, County Supervisor Hilda Solis, and labor leader Dolores Huerta.

Following the mural dedication, a reception and viewing of a new art exhibit titled “Gloria Molina: Madrina of the Eastside” will take place at CASA 0101 Theater at 6:45 p.m. The evening will culminate with the premiere of playwright Josefina López’s “A Woman Named Gloria” in the Gloria Molina Auditorium at 8 p.m.

Gloria Molina’s Political Journey

Gloria Molina’s political career began in earnest in 1982 when she gained elective office in the 56th Assembly District seat. Her fight to quash a proposed prison in East L.A. marked the beginning of her long-standing commitment to her community. In 1987, she won the City Council’s First District seat and was later elected to the Board of Supervisors from the county’s First District in 1991, where she served until 2014.

Molina was known as a sharp fiscal watchdog and her district encompassed Koreatown, Pico-Union, East Los Angeles, and the San Gabriel Valley. She was the first woman elected to the Board of Supervisors, a group colloquially known as the “Five Little Kings.” Prior to her election, she worked as a deputy for presidential personnel in the Jimmy Carter White House.

In recognition of Molina’s leadership, the Board of Supervisors in 2023 renamed a Grand Park project she championed in her honor. It is now called Gloria Molina Grand Park.

Legacy and Impact

Molina’s legacy extends beyond her political achievements. She was an advocate for women’s health issues and founded a nurse mentoring program to address the nurse shortage. Her contributions to public service were recognized when she joined the CCF Board of Directors in 2016 and later served as chair in 2021.

“Gloria opened doors for future leaders and had a keen intellect, passion, and work ethic that made her a forceful advocate and a force of nature,”* said Thomas A. Saenz. Her commitment to strengthening communities in Los Angeles County will be felt for generations.

Molina’s death was confirmed by her close friend, Gloria Flores, and she is remembered for her accomplishments and battles on L.A.’s Eastside. Colleagues and friends, including Miguel Santana, Zev Yaroslavsky, Kathryn Barger, and Fernando Guerra, reflect on Molina’s legacy and how she changed the landscape of local politics.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles, a trip to the newly named Gloria Molina Grand Park is a must. This park, a testament to Molina’s dedication to public service, offers a serene escape in the heart of the city.

For the seasoned traveler, exploring Boyle Heights provides a deeper understanding of the community Molina served and fought for. The area is rich in cultural history and offers a variety of local eateries and shops that reflect the vibrant spirit of the neighborhood.

In conclusion, Gloria Molina’s life and career serve as an inspiration to many. Her relentless pursuit of equity and justice has left an indelible mark on Los Angeles, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders. As you explore the city, take a moment to reflect on the impact one individual can have on a community and the importance of public service in shaping our world.