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Under the bright New Year’s Day sun, families gathered along the streets to witness a unique parade in East Los Angeles, where vintage Impalas and Monte Carlos replaced traditional floats.
The procession of lowriders gracefully glided down Whittier Boulevard, marking a celebration of Assembly Bill 436, effective from January 1, aimed at overturning cruising bans in California.
Assemblyman David Alvarez introduced the bill, and its implementation sparked spontaneous festivities across the state.
Historical Context of Cruising Culture:
The pageant of lowriders pays homage to a rich Southern California tradition that emerged after World War II. Starting in the 1950s and ’60s, lowriders, hot rods, and customized cars became symbols of a burgeoning youth culture.
Teens showcased their unique rides, congregating at iconic locations such as Hollywood, Sunset, Crenshaw, Whittier, and Van Nuys Boulevards.
Drive-In Restaurants as Cruising Hubs:
Drive-in restaurants, including the famous Bob’s Big Boy and Harvey’s Broiler in Downey, often served as cruising enthusiasts’ starting or ending points.
The car culture of the time involved young people displaying their latest fashions, cars, hairstyles, and clothes, creating a vibrant atmosphere at places like Harvey’s Drive-In, fondly described as “Teenage Paris” by Tom Wolfe in his 1960s essay, “The Hair Boys.”
Cruising Strip Culture and Challenges:
Each cruising strip developed its unique culture, drawing a diverse audience. However, the popularity of cruising also led to complaints from neighbors and local businesses.
Concerns included noise, blocked driveways, and disruptive behavior. In response, various local ordinances were implemented, limiting activities such as crossing the same point more than three times in one evening.
Cultural Expression and Legislative Change:
Assembly Bill 436, which aims to protect cruising as an act of cultural presentation and community activity, was championed by the United Lowrider Coalition.
Assemblymember David Alvarez emphasized the tagline, “cruising is not a crime,” as a testament to the importance of preserving this cultural tradition.
