Plaza México (Lynwood, California)

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Plaza México is a multi-purpose retail and cultural center in Lynwood, California. It includes shopping, including individual stores and an indoor swap meet; dining; and entertainment selections and is a cultural space for the Mexican-American community. Plaza México incorporates the design and style of plazas in Mexico.^[1] The mall was developed and is currently owned by Korean investors. It hosts cultural festivals and performances, such as "El Grito de la Independencia" and "Cinco de Mayo" festivities.

Mexico-themed architecture and design

Plaza México seeks to recreate Mexican regional and national icons. The architecture is based on traditional Mexican towns and contains a variety of Mexican cultural symbols from different eras. The Korean owners hired two Mexican public relations coordinators to select the icons, cultural symbols and events that are portrayed.

The reproduction of Mexico City’s Angel of Independence, which symbolizes Mexican nationhood in Mexico, marks the major entrance to Plaza Mexico. This sculpture serves as the master symbol of Plaza Mexico representing its importance in the community. The Angel has already developed some history in Plaza Mexico becoming an important site of congregation for political rallies. For example, during the March and April 2006 student walkouts for US congressional immigration reform proposals, large groups met at the Angel before marching to Los Angeles City Hall.^[2] In addition, during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, community members and other visitors gathered in Plaza Mexico to watch the games and after a victory or tie they would congregate around the Angel of Independence.^[2]

Tourist attraction

Many of the visitors consist of immigrant clienteles, some of them are unable to travel to Mexico because they do not have the legal or economic resources. Most of the visitors are of low or middle-low income status and many some of their families are

Festivities and cultural events

The Plaza hosts a number of Mexican festivities and cultural events, such as Mexican folk music, dances,

33°55′46″N 118°12′57″W / 33.92947°N 118.21577°W / 33.92947; -118.21577