Ruben Ochoa

Rainbow umbrellas, or sombrillas, hold symbolic, historical, and practical value to the vendor community. They are
also used as a wayfinder by hungry customers looking for local comida. Emblematic of policy reform and supporting
vendor rights throughout Southern California, ¡Vendedores, Vendedores! harkens to the varied familiar call of vendor
goods; “¡Paletas, Paletas!, ¡Tacos, Tacos!… ¡Frutas, Frutas!”

Here, a weary traveler might not find the usual sustenance from a vendor cart, but a place to acknowledge the
hardworking, oftentimes marginalized, street vendors who fulfill an integral part of feeding the city. Like a siren’s call
to the brightly colorful concrete benches, no money is exchanged for food, but leaving artistically satiated is a
possibility.

¡Vendedores, Vendedores! is a shout out to the vendor community that they are seen and appreciated. Stay hungry
for a bit longer, and take a moment to have a seat. Reflect and honor those who are part of the social fabric of Los
Angeles. Celebrate the unity, acceptance, small business support, and immigrant rights. Pin this spot and come back

often, then get up and search for a local spot to support a street vendor.

Gracias to the street vendor community to which I proudly include mi familia, especially my mom and dad, Lupe and
Carlos, who are my foundation.
Special thanks to Cam La, Erika Hirugami, Justin Kang and Greg Dion & crew.