Announcements

The Fairfax neighborhood in Los Angeles evolved from a predominantly Jewish neighborhood into a culturally diverse area. The neighborhood’s significance lies in its transactional and interpersonal spaces, such as grocery stores, delis, and synagogues, rather than in its architecture. Migration patterns, economic development, and demographic shifts significantly influenced Fairfax’s identity and outside perception. Rising property values and rents have led to the closure of small, culturally significant businesses, transforming Fairfax’s commercial landscape. The influx of luxury brands has raised questions about affordability and the preservation of cultural heritage. Gentrification has displaced long-term residents and altered the neighborhood’s character, reflecting broader urban trends. Fairfax’s evolution demonstrates that neighborhood change is not a rare phenomenon in Los Angeles, but rather inevitable. A neighborhood’s cultural legacy can still be acknowledged and honored while simultaneously embracing diversity and inclusivity. This report explores the evolution of Fairfax and considers policies that might be implemented to preserve the cultural legacy and historical significance of this area.

This research was conducted by UCLA undergraduate students Stephanie Zager, Michaela Esposito, and Ella Kitt, with contributions from UCLA graduate student Benjamin Kersten and supervision by Professor David N. Myers.

Read the full report [here].

This project explores the enduring influence of Soviet-era prison culture on contemporary Russian society and politics. Through interdisciplinary collaboration among academics, activists, and policymakers, this research underscores how criminal subculture, rooted in Soviet prisons, continues to shape public attitudes, political discourse, and societal behaviors in Russia today. The report delves into the evolution of this mindset from its origins in Soviet prison culture, tracing its influence on post-Soviet Russian culture and politics. The study draws on various writings by former prisoners and other historical sources to illustrate how this subculture has become deeply embedded in Russian society. Key findings of the research highlight the integration of criminal jargon and practices into Russian public discourse and the political sphere, particularly under President Vladimir Putin. His use of criminal slang and emphasis on living “by concepts” resonates deeply with the Russian populace, reinforcing authoritarian tendencies and complicating international relations. A nuanced understanding of these cultural and historical factors is crucial for analyzing Russia’s current and future societal and political developments.

This research was conducted by UCLA graduate students Lydia Roberts and Marianna Petiaskina, with guidance from UCLA Professor Igor Pilshchikov.

Read the full report [here].