A cleaning project of Little Tokyo happened on May 13th with the cooperations of local residents and business owners. This project was held to clean Little Tokyo since population numbers are increasing in recent years. Because of the redevelopment, different demographics are now living in Little Tokyo of
Downtown LA. “Little Tokyo Sparkle!” was brought up to clean the city and strengthen the bonds of the Japanese American community. This is the second cleaning service since last November. The Naganos living in the area started the project. They called out to each Japanese business owners and organization representatives and started this project. Approximately, 300 locals and business owners gathered this time. They all split into each blocks and picked up the trash, as well as cleaned off the streets and graffitis. The local restaurants and volunteering staffs handed out Japanese curry, rice balls and snacks to the participants after the cleaning was done.