California’s 56th Assembly District is a vibrant community characterized by its extremely diverse population. This district, although part of the larger Los Angeles area, encompasses several smaller communities as well. These communities include not only the district cities, but also many ethnic associations and cultural hubs. For instance, although the 56th has a majority Latino population, the district is also home to large Indian and Asian populations.

Little India, located along Pioneer Boulevard in Artesia is home to a myriad of authentic Indian businesses and resources. See Tony’s Legislation to protect the ethnic hair-removal technique of Threading. In addition, several significant and distinct Asian populations in Cerritos, among many others, add their own cultural contributions to the mix, making the area one of the most engagingly diverse districts in California.

The multicultural nature of the 56th District today reflects the region’s rich history. As was the case in most of California, Assembly District 56 was originally populated by Native Americans before Spanish settlers arrived during the missionary era. Later, as the Los Angeles area began to develop its agricultural industry, the region attracted a vast array of new arrivals from all different walks of life.

In the 20th century, as the Los Angeles area began to come into its own as a major American population center, the area that is now District 56 became the heart of the region’s industrial sector. The communities in the southern Los Angeles area upon which this industrial boom was based are now sometimes referred to as the “Gateway Cities” and industry continues to play an important role in the District’s local business atmosphere today.

The educational system in the 56th Assembly District is worthy of distinction as well. Home to the successful ABC School District, among many others, the Assembly District also includes Whitney High School. Whitney High, a public school in Cerritos, has twice been distinguished by Presidential recognition as one of the best high schools in the country. On an athletic note, the Artesia High School Boy’s Basketball Team consistently ranks among the best in California and just recently won the state title in the 2005-2006 season.

The 56th Assembly District is home to several exciting places of interest such as Knott’s Berry Farm, The Cerritos Performing Arts Center, the Hawaiian Gardens Casino, and the Santa Fe Swap Meet, among others. For more information regarding these attractions and others, visit the “District 56 Highlights” link in the main district information menu.