Help Keep Jorge the Donkey on Olvera Street – Preserve a Los Angeles Tradition!

A piece of Los Angeles history is at risk. For over 60 years, my family’s photo stand — featuring the beloved Jorge the stuffed donkey — has been a cherished part of Olvera Street. Families have been stopping by for generations to take pictures, make memories, and share smiles with Jorge, a true symbol of our community.

Now, after decades of running this iconic stand, I may be forced out. When my mother, the original leaseholder, passed away, she didn’t name a successor. Because my name was never finalized on the lease, the city is required to go through a public bidding process for this spot. While others can apply, this gives my family a chance to keep Jorge right where he belongs — but we need help to make that happen.

We’ve already seen many people stopping by to take what could be their final picture with Jorge. Losing him would mean losing a decades-old tradition that has touched countless lives, and vendors and visitors alike say it would take a piece of Olvera Street with it.

I’m not asking for a handout — I’m asking for support to help bid for our family’s spot and preserve this small business, this family legacy, and this beloved Los Angeles landmark. Every donation brings us closer to securing Jorge’s future for the community, visitors, and generations to come.

Please help us keep Jorge where he belongs — at Olvera Street, bringing joy and memories for decades more.

Any contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Thank you for helping us save a piece of L.A. history.

Update July 15th 2024: Despite community outrage and your public support, El Pueblo voted on Thursday, July 11th to evict us. Our family is shocked and devastated at this news.

However, we are not going down without a fight. Our family intends to fight this till the end. We have decided to pursue legal action to remain in our current space. We are asking for your donation to help us with legal fees and other costs needed to remain where we have been for the past 35+ years.

The Hernández family believes that La Careta and Jorge el burro are cultural landmarks in LA. We need your support to protect this space and our family legacy.

If you can’t donate, please spread the word and share. Any little bit helps.