In this clip from the documentary film "PacoimaStories: Land of Dreams, Crystal Jackson reveals the town's struggle to overcome minority education issues in the 60s and 70s. She speaks with Congressman Tony Cardenas, a graduate of San Fernando High School in Pacoima, who shares his experience as a Mexican American student during that time.
As Black veterans returned home after World War II, some came to Pacoima after learning about the cheap land and availability to minorities. Those who moved across the country to the California suburb purchased houses called the "Joe Louis Homes."
Crystal Jackson - Author of new historical novel series "Not Colored" discusses her new book
Author Crystal Jackson shares thoughts about her new novel "Not Colored." Based on a true-story, “Not Colored” is one African American family’s epic journey through the highs and lows of America’s social consciousness. This compelling historical novel from award-winning filmmaker and author Crystal Jackson dives into the complex dynamics of race through her maternal ancestors.
Pacoima History Day 2020 - A Virtual Celebration of LA's Most Historic Town
On October 24, 2020, Pacoima Historical Society embarked on its first virtual history day. The event was streamed live on Zoom, and featured a who's who of Pacoima alumni including California Secretary of State Alex Padilla, US Congressman Tony Cardenas, and US Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Honoring the theme of “Activism and Politics” in Pacoima, awards were presented to community members who have exemplified Pacoima's spirit of activism.
Ritchie Valens: When Fame and Tragedy Collide - PacoimaStories
This short clip tells the amazing story of Ritchie Valens and his life growing up in the Los Angeles town of Pacoima. Valens died tragically in a 1957 plane crash at the age of 17. Taken from the documentary-film "PacoimaStories: Land of Dreams." Available on DVD
The Entrance: Pacoima's Story - San Fernando Tigers Football
Here is a narrated excerpt from "The Entrance: Pacoima's Story," a new book from author Crystal Jackson. This reading comes from Chapter 21: "S.F. Tigers." It talks about when a team of mostly juniors, which included Heisman-Trophy winner Charles White, tackled the 1974 city-championship, and eventually became the best high school backfield in the nation.
PacoimaStories: Land of Dreams - Teaser
Official Selection "2018 Pan African Film Festival" - PacoimaStories: Land of Dreams
PacoimaStories "Land of Dreams" - New from BAIT-CAL Films
“PacoimaStories” is an epic documentary-film that tells of the struggle, sacrifice and the undying human spirit that have seemingly formed a convergence in one particular place. It has been there for hundreds of years and that place is called Pacoima.
Featuring US Congressman Tony Cardenas, USC Football legend Anthony Davis, comedian Gilbert Esquivel and more.