Florist Maria Magdalena on Indiana Street and 4th Street prepares roses for a bouquet. Photo by David Garcia.

From local street vendors setting up their stands to musicians fine-tuning their craft, the workforce of Boyle Heights is as diverse as the neighborhood itself.

With skill, dedication, and the work of their hands, these workers keep the community moving — connecting people and shaping the spaces around them.

This photo essay looks at the hands of local workers, showcasing what they create and bring to the neighborhood every day.


Streetvendor Tomas Garcia prepares an elote with mayonnaise for sale. Photo by Alyson Martinez.
Gilberto Felipe Cervantes practices songs on his guitar at Mariachi Plaza while trying to get hired for work. Photo by David Garcia.
Tacos de Cabeza al Vapor Larreta, located near Rowan Avenue and East Cesar E. Chavez Avenue, has been serving customers for over four years. Photo by David Garcia.
Florist Blanca Palacios re-pots a plant at her flower shop, Sofia Flores y Plantas. Photo by Alyson Martinez.
Barista Elvis Gonzalez pours an espresso shot at ÜLËW. Photo by Alyson Martinez.

David Garcia is a senior at Felicitas and Gonzalo Méndez High School and part of the 2023-25 cohort of Boyle Heights Beat students.

Alyson Martinez is a junior at Roosevelt High School participating in The Beat’s photography cohort.

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