Council designates portion of East Hollywood as 'Little Armenia' after public support
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Summary
After public testimony from Armenian civic and religious organizations and council discussion about precedent and inclusiveness, the council voted to designate an area of East Hollywood as 'Little Armenia.' The resolution passed unanimously on the council floor.
The Los Angeles City Council voted to designate a portion of East Hollywood as "Little Armenia" following public testimony from Armenian community organizations and council remarks about cultural recognition and inclusiveness.
Three public speakers representing Armenian civic, religious and business groups — Gary Sinonian of the Saint John's Armenian Church youth organization, Gary Kanjin on behalf of several Armenian institutions, and Alex Sarto of the Armenian National Committee of America (Western Region) — urged the council to approve the designation, citing petitions, local business support and the potential to stimulate cultural tourism and economic revitalization. Kanjin told the council the designation "will stimulate local economy, promote harmony, and cultural awareness in the greater Hollywood community."
Councilmember Jackie Goldberg framed the action in the context of existing neighborhood designations such as Chinatown, Little Tokyo and Koreatown, emphasizing that naming a neighborhood is intended to celebrate, not exclude. After brief supportive remarks from several councilmembers, the clerk recorded a roll call vote of 13 ayes and the designation was approved. The motion and resolution will be processed through the clerk's office and the council's procedures for neighborhood signage and recognition.