Diana Gamez: STEEL RESERVE

This image complicates toxicity on multiple levels that are often overlooked. First, the physical and actual toxicity of trash is present and makes me wonder, what about this setting has been intentionally and stretegically made to be be prone to trash and what message does this send to those living in this neighbrhood? Has the city actually invested in providing spaces for individuals to throw their trash? This latter question can lead to conversations about toxicity from individuals and citiy officials. Secondly, I also think that this image complicates how the 210 was designed in ways that specific communities would have to deal with traffic while other communities are protected from traffic and the toxic it contributes. Lastly, I think this picture exposes toxicity in a way that has been hidden and erased with cosmetic changes, which allows the city of LA to ignore their responsibility.