Inspirational Leadership: Interview with Los Angeles County Parks Director

Norma Edith García-Gonzalez was appointed as Director of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation and the Los Angeles County Regional Parks and Open Space District on July 7, 2020. She is the first woman and the first person of color to serve in this role since the department was created in 1944. García-Gonzalez is an advocate for the well-being of children, families, and in bringing equity to communities throughout the County. This commitment is further demonstrated through her active participation in various civic and professional organizations. 

In a recent interview with Cort Jones of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), García-Gonzalez discusses a variety of topics, including:

• How her career in parks and recreation began;
• The historical barriers when it comes to serving the most vulnerable populations in Los Angeles County;
• How she and her staff are intentionally centering their work in equity and anti-racism;
• How the 2022 Parks Needs Assessment (PNA+) Final Report was adopted as L.A. County’s 30x30 plan to address climate change;
• Some of the opportunities and challenges when it comes to achieving the 30x30 goal of conserving 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030; and
• Why this work means so much to her.

To listen to the interview, please visit this link.