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Janette Villafana

Janette Villafana is an award-winning bilingual multimedia journalist. Her heart lies in community-based reporting, and her work is highly centered on showcasing and uplifting community voices, with a significant focus on the Latino community. She developed her beat at L.A. TACO, covering street vending communities in Los Angeles. Past work has been featured on NBC, LAist, Latino Rebels, and more. She is currently featured at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington in an exhibit titled “¡De última hora! Latinas Report Breaking News.”

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Food

A San Pedro Tamal Vendor Was Deported, Then Locals Showed Up To Help Keep The Family’s Business Alive

Janny Kum, a customer of the San Pedro tamal business formerly run by José Medina, said, "It's important that we all help out in any way we can because that's what makes us human."

October 17, 2025
Food

This Couple Serves Uniquely Delicious Nicaraguan-Persian Street Food in L.A.

Koobideh and carne asada, served with gallo pinto and tajadas (fried plantains). Or lamb shank braised in saffron and spices, with hummus. You can have it all at this street food stand in South Central.

October 1, 2025

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ICE

Monrovia Man Is Hit and Killed By A Vehicle As He Attempted to Run Away From ICE 

“He looked really bad,” said the eyewitness in Spanish. “He was still breathing when we tried to help him, but he did not look good.”

August 14, 2025
Culture

(UPDATE) ‘I’m Deeply Sorry:’ Willy Chavarría Apologizes To Oaxaca After Backlash From Both Sides of The Border

“I am deeply sorry that the shoe was appropriated in this design and not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community,” said the designer.

August 11, 2025
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