Sociology
I lived in Sawtelle in West L.A. for the past twenty years. This small neighborhood of Sawtelle Boulevard is a Japanese flourished town that can be compared to Osaka in Japan. The people in my neighborhood are mostly Japanese and Asian. Most of the homes, businesses, livelihood, language, religion and social involvements are influenced by the Japanese Institute of Sawtelle as their cultural connection. Thus, it is expected that this town do not have many Latino and African American residents because of the heavy Japanese influence. Most of the immigrants in this town are closely-knit since they have a long history together which goes way back in 1952, were they were denied of citizenship and prohibited by law from land ownership. This, history tell us that it was only the second generation of descendants who were born American citizens who were later on allowed to purchase real property. Some of the common experiences of these people shared the Japanese immigrant encounters while growing up in Los Angeles. The local heritage of the town presents a distinctive story from the past that shape the character of the present Sawtelle community today.
Based on my personal experience about my neighborhood is that the people are friendly and accommodating. These are the traits that they have inherited during the Japanese occupancy of the town. Since most of the people here are Japanese and Asians, the business establishments have conformed to suit the traditional Japanese way of life. In terms of language, the people speak and can understand basic “Nihongo” language. In terms of food and values, most of the residents of Sawtelle have been influenced by the Japanese.
Over the years, I have witnessed how my neighborhood has undergone transformation through changing ethnicities and different shops, institutions and organizations along the Sawtelle Boulevard. The traditional Japanese dances and music have become part of the neighborhood’s parties and community events. The Japanese food and Buddhist religion were promoted during eateries and events which became significant in earning the label Sawtelle’s Japantown Little Osaka.
In terms of security and safety, the neighborhood is well protected. The residents of this town are law abiding citizens as instilled by the Japanese trait of discipline. We have been exposed to local laws such as driving laws, smoking and alcohol ordinances, littering are just among the minor infractions that will not be left unpunished when committed. In school, the young students are expected to follow the rules and regulations of the school administration to avoid suspension or expulsion. Most of the commercial establishments are installed with multiple surveillance cameras to keep track of any illegal behavior of shoppers and guests. Hence, discipline and control have become a part of our everyday lives which is ensures that the environment is safe. The peace and order situation in this town is well-maintained. The local police authorities exercise community policing and many of the citizens have supported the aggressive patrol programs in order to protect the safety of the neighborhood. The community policing have increased the involvement of the citizens to advocate public safety, and reduce the crime rate. For the last two decades, I can say that there were no serious crimes that ever occurred in the community since people in our town are peace-loving, diplomatic and disciplined.
