The LA Local

The LA Local, formerly known as the Los Angeles Local News Initiative, is a transformative effort to ensure all Angelenos have access to quality, independent local news and information. Rooted in insights from nearly 900 residents across 244 zip codes and shaped by extensive community listening, the initiative addresses the diverse information needs of Los Angeles communities.

To start, the initiative will launch a local news organization that will operate Boyle Heights Beat, a bilingual community newsroom that has grown to become a trusted primary source of community news in Boyle Heights and East L.A. In 2025, the organization will expand its reach by launching similar hyperlocal publications in additional communities. These neighborhood-focused efforts will ensure more residents have access to relevant, unbiased information about their communities.

The initiative will also invest in LAist and CalMatters to address broader information gaps. These teams will provide in-depth coverage of L.A.-specific and California-wide issues, with their reporting freely available for republishing to ensure it reaches as many residents as possible.

A coalition of 20 media outlets and universities across L.A. are working together to amplify journalism’s impact. Early efforts, like collaborative election coverage between LAist, CalMatters, Boyle Heights Beat, and others, have expanded access to voter resources through shared content, joint events, and cross-promotion. By leveraging the strengths of these partnerships, The LA Local is creating a robust and inclusive future for journalism in Los Angeles.

Leaders

Michele Siqueiros

Chief Executive Officer

Michele Siqueiros, a Los Angeles native, has spent her career creating systemic change in California…

Michele Siqueiros, a Los Angeles native, has spent her career creating systemic change in California. As president of the Campaign for College Opportunity from 2008 to 2024, she transformed the organization from a startup into California’s most influential higher education advocacy organization. Her strategic approach combining research, advocacy, and community engagement led to historic policy reforms and the allocation of more than $6 billion in state funding for higher education. She serves on the boards of highly regarded organizations including The California Endowment, Pitzer College, and others. Her effectiveness in driving systemic change has been recognized through numerous awards, including the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award, The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF)’s Excellence in Community Service Award, and being named Woman of the Year by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.