The term “Loisaida,” Spanglish for “Lower East Side,” was coined by activist Bimbo Rivas in 1974, and defines a neighborhood less by physical borders than by Latinx identity. It began with an influx of newcomers from Puerto Rico and Latin America in the 1940s, nurturing grassroots activism in response to local and global political and economic struggles. It has the highest concentration of community gardens in New York City. Artistry has always been crucial, with numerous well known Latinx actors, writers, and musicians originating, living and working here, many of whom have influenced global culture.