A Latino running group, Barrio Athletics, has relocated its Sunday 5K event from Leimert Park in Los Angeles to Elysian Park following community objections. The group announced its decision to move after discussions with community leaders, stating the relocation was made out of respect for Leimert Park and its surrounding community.
Barrio Athletics had initially planned to begin its run at Leimert Park and proceed along Crenshaw Boulevard. However, the proposal met immediate opposition from some community members who raised concerns about the event potentially disrupting a long-standing Sunday marketplace that supports local Black vendors. Critics also accused the running club of using the event to "scope out" the neighborhood, fueling fears of gentrification and displacement within the historically Black enclave.
Social media commentary described Leimert Park as "black space" and warned Barrio Athletics of potential resistance from the Black community, with some characterizing the event as a "hostile takeover" by the Hispanic community. Some individuals reportedly threatened to contact Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or confront the runners directly.
In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, Barrio Athletics initially offered to adjust its starting point and warm-up location to avoid conflict with the marketplace. The organization stated this modification was intended "to respect the local vendors’ space and not cause any disturbance to the market at the park." However, these concessions were not sufficient to appease all opponents.
Najee Ali, director of Project Islamic Hope, urged Mayor Karen Bass to intervene, emphasizing Leimert Park's significance as "the crown jewel and heart and soul of Black Los Angeles."
Ultimately, Barrio Athletics decided to move the entire 5K event to Elysian Park, located near Dodger Stadium. The group cited the need for respectful consideration of Leimert Park and its residents as the reason for their decision.