Jim McDonnell, Director of the USC Price Safe Communities Institute (SCI), was honored to sit down with Mrs. Ozie Gonzaque, a renowned community activist and former President of the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners of Los Angeles (HACLA). Gonzaque’s influence has been instrumental in reshaping public housing in Watts, East Los Angeles, and nationwide. She is widely recognized as the driving force behind the transformation of public housing’s troubled past. Mrs. Gonzaque is also credited with coining the phrase “To Protect and Serve,” which has become the official motto of the LAPD and is synonymous with police departments nationwide. Her commitment to community service and her desire to effect positive change have left an indelible mark, inspiring others to emulate her dedication and serve their communities.

SCI will be honoring Mrs. Ozie Gonzaque on March 20th at USC for Women’s History Month. Please subscribe to our newsletter on the homepage to be the first to receive event information!

Watch the full discussion below!