In a disheartening incident, a historic plaque commemorating Black ownership of a California beach seized in 1924 has been stolen from Bruce’s Beach Park in Manhattan Beach, authorities confirmed this week.
The copper plaque, installed in February 2023 and dedicated the following month, held significant historical and cultural value.
Bruce’s Beach and a Painful Chapter in Black History
Bruce’s Beach, initially owned by Charles and Willa Bruce, played a pivotal role in Black history, attracting Black tourists and homeowners in the early 20th century.
However, faced with racism and legislation, the Bruces were forced to give up the property in 1924, with the City Council citing the construction of a park.
The stolen plaque highlighted the racially motivated and wrongful actions of the city at that time, acknowledging the seizure of property that affected not only the Bruces but also neighboring Black and white families.
The hope expressed on the plaque was for a future that embraces respect and inclusion. The theft was reported on Monday, prompting an immediate investigation by the Manhattan Beach Police Department.
As of now, there are no leads in the case, and the spokesperson for the city, Alexandra Latragna, stated that there is no evidence suggesting a hate crime.
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Concerns Rise Over Stolen Bruce’s Beach Plaque
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, who played a key role in returning Bruce’s Beach to its namesake family, expressed concern that the theft might reopen old wounds but hoped it was unrelated to the painful history of Bruce’s Beach. She speculated that it might be part of a broader trend of copper thefts in Los Angeles County.
The plaque’s significance lies in its role as a symbol of historical injustice and a reminder of the struggles faced by Black communities in the past.
The investigation into the theft is ongoing, with authorities committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible for this unfortunate incident.
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