BREAKING: The beloved donkey stand on Olvera Street, home to Jorge the stuffed donkey, faces imminent eviction as a legal battle heats up. Richard Hernandez, whose family has operated the stand for over 60 years, is fighting to keep this iconic landmark alive amidst a looming jury trial.
The family-operated booth, a staple for tourists and locals alike, has become a cherished part of Los Angeles culture, often dubbed the “unofficial mascot of Los Angeles.” The stand was established in the late 1960s by Richard’s parents, Jesus “Don Chuy” Hernandez and Maria Trancito Hernandez, and features Jorge, a sarape-wearing donkey that has appeared in countless vacation photos and media outlets.
Now, just days before a pivotal court date, Hernandez claims he was unjustly excluded from the vendor lease, which he believed would include him as per his mother’s request in 2019. After her passing last year, he received an eviction notice, prompting him to voice his frustration publicly. “This is unjust. It’s not right,” he told KTLA. “Somebody must want this spot… It doesn’t make any sense.”
As the trial approaches, Hernandez is balancing his daily responsibilities of capturing photos for visitors while preparing for his court date. He insists he is ready to pay rent and continue the tradition that has brought joy to generations. The emotional toll is evident; Hernandez expressed, “It means the world to my family,” as he reflected on the significance of the stand.
The community has rallied around the Hernandez family, with many expressing their desire for the stand to remain open. “We really hope he can stay open… This is such an important historical place,” a loyal customer shared. The support has grown, especially after a judge recently ruled in favor of the family against the city’s initial eviction efforts, although the legal battle is far from over.
Hernandez has publicly appealed to Mayor Karen Bass for intervention. KTLA is currently awaiting comments from both the mayor’s office and the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office regarding the ongoing situation.
As the trial date approaches, the stakes are high not just for the Hernandez family but for countless Angelenos who view Jorge and the donkey stand as symbols of their shared history and culture. “It’s my livelihood,” Hernandez stated passionately, emphasizing the fight’s importance to his family legacy.
The community watches closely as the legal proceedings unfold, hoping for a resolution that honors the long-standing tradition of Olvera Street. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as we follow the fate of this cherished Los Angeles landmark.
