Bonilla is happy to help and says Vanny is a driving force. “She puts herself in the shoes of people who don’t have food. I’ll support her for life,” she adds.
NELA Unity Fest Los Angeles highlights grassroots support for families affected by immigration enforcement while building unity across changing neighborhoods.
Vanny Arias is constantly on the move. It’s hard for her to answer the phone while coordinating musicians and participants for the NELA Unity Fest, which celebrates the first year of the organization NELA Food Distribution.
Every week looks the same for Vanny, as she is affectionately called. More than 400 people rely on her help to eat during these times of ICE enforcement. Each week, she and more than 100 volunteers gather food, pack it, and distribute it or deliver it to those going through hard times or afraid to leave their homes due to immigration raids.
The event will take place this Saturday from 12–5 p.m. at Sycamore Grove Park, located at 4702 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles.
“We’re celebrating — it’s our first anniversary,” says Vanny. “We’re not just celebrating, we want to promote unity among residents and businesses in NELA neighborhoods. With gentrification, there have been tensions. Some people feel displaced. To the businesses that have arrived, we want to send a message: we’re here, coexist with us, let’s come together. We want to build bridges.”
But Vanny’s generosity doesn’t stop there. When asked how she will pay for the event, she says anxiously: “I’m waiting for my accountant to call — I need my tax refund to cover the festival expenses.”
“Whose refund?” I ask.
“Mine. I’m spending it on the festival. My son already scolded me — he couldn’t believe it,” she adds.
The band Chencha Berrinches, one of the most iconic representatives of Latin music, will lead the entertainment.
“We have to support NELA. They’ve been doing this work for almost a year. It’s amazing to have Vanny and her organization feeding people who need it — knowing they can count on that support is invaluable. That’s why we’ll be there. We want to contribute in any way we can. We know it’s very hard for her — she’s paying out of her own pocket. The only way to thank her is by supporting her,” said Armando Romero, known years ago as “Chapulín” and later as Don Diavlo. He leads Chencha Berrinches, one of the most important Latin ska bands in Los Angeles.
Don Diavlo says the community’s fear is real and visible even in the music scene.
“It’s hard to see what’s happening on TV. They treat us like animals — that’s the worst part. I wrote a song about it, it’s called ‘Sin Embargo.’ It’s on streaming platforms,” he adds.
He says they’ve seen smaller crowds at concerts but continue to stay active.
“We’re going to Costa Rica and Japan, taking our community’s message abroad. Overseas, people always receive us with solidarity.”
Don Diavlo highlights the community’s response to events like the ones Vanny organizes.
Vanny, along with her friend Michelle Bonilla, has been selling pupusas to raise additional funds.
“God sent me my friend. We’re both ‘patrollers’ — we watch where ICE is operating. Now she’s with me, helping with everything. It’s a blessing,” says Vanny.
Bonilla is happy to help and says Vanny is a driving force. “She puts herself in the shoes of people who don’t have food. I’ll support her for life,” she adds.
There will be numerous food vendors, activities, and games. Vanny also highlights the presence of Ballet Folklórico Aztlán, a dance school from Pico Union.
