Lou’s Bodega Aztec

Originally this mural was part of the decor for a previous local business: Leal’s Tire Shop est. 1975. Its lease was given to Lou’s and has since been relocated to E 7th street. The reason for the relocation is unclear; however, individuals part of “Leal’s” family are the owners of the property. With the new eatery up and running Lou’s Bodega’s kept the original Aztec themed mural with a few new changes. The continued usage of the imagery for commercialization and economic gain rather than respect has caused much strife. A major point of contention is that many see this anglo northern takeover of the iconography for profit as another form of whitewashing. By using the same iconic Aztec imagery of warriors, bright colors and general style Lambert, the owner, effectively utilized the southern Chicano identity for her own ’New York’ brand. Another point of protest is the appropriation of the term Bodega. Many of those spearheading this protest see the use of this term as another form of Hispanic appropriation from the New York owner. Further insult to injury was Lambert’s attempt to pay homage to Leal’s by utilizing tires for the flowerbeds and landscaping. It is considered to be a showcase of gentrification and cultural appropriation which is being protested by a group called “Defend our Hoodz”