In 2003, Jesse “Chuco” Becerra, a devoted youth organizer and volunteer at the Youth Justice Coalition, lost his life to gun violence. The memory of his generous, welcoming and kind nature is embedded in the mission of the facility that bears his name, Chuco’s Justice Center. 

Situated along the broad corridor of Central Avenue in the Florence-Graham neighborhood, the youth and community space is housed in a former county juvenile courthouse, now enlivened  by a set of dynamic murals that capture the hope and energy of social justice advocates. These individuals have inspired the team at Chuco’s Justice Center to challenge and work towards dismantling  policies that have systematically discriminated against people, providing community members with the tools to promote human rights and combat the school-to-prison pipeline that has disproportionately targeted youth in the region. 

The parent organization to Chuco’s Justice Center, Youth Justice Coalition, has a 20-year history of organizing in South LA. It was started by a group of adults impacted by the juvenile justice system who dreamed of a better future for their neighbors. A representation of that community-wide spirit is Chuco’s Justice FREE Los Angeles (Fight for the Revolution that Will Educate and Empower Los Angeles) High School. The charter school caters to students from ages 16 to 24 who have been impacted by the justice system.

The organization continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for marginalized individuals in South Los Angeles and neighboring communities. In addition to education, the organization  offers free and low-cost spaces for workshops, performances and lectures. Chuco’s Justice Center reflects  the longstanding culture of community, redemption and activism that defines South Los Angeles.