Here is a message from Venice Heritage Museum!
Wishing a very happy birthday to Jataun Valentine — a member of the historic Tabor family, one of the founding African-American families of Venice, and a lifelong activist, inspired by her mother, Hazel’s service before her.
(Jataun Valentine pictured in the front row, second from left)
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You might recognize Jataun from Ivo Vergara’s vibrant mural on Lincoln Blvd. She has been a devoted friend to the seniors of Venice for decades and remains a revered community elder. Jataun’s first volunteer work was at the Oakwood Recreation Center, helping with the nutrition program for the Oakwood Senior Club.
Photo courtesy of Venice Heritage Museum
In addition, she has organized over 100 trips, both local and out-of-state for seniors. She also created a Speakers Forum, bringing together seniors and political candidates. And if a senior needed a ride to vote, Jataun was there.
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In 2005 for her outstanding community service and for encouraging the elderly to remain active she was honored with the LA Pearls Senior Citizen of the Year Award.
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Jataun’s philosophy? “If someone needs help, no matter what their age, I may not have an answer back together, will find a solution.”
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Jataun’s family and friends recently celebrated with her at the Venice-Abbot Kinney Memorial Library
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Cheers to another turn around the sun!
‘Photo courtesy of Marilyn Ramirez
About Venice Heritage Museum:
We preserve, nurture, and celebrate stories of Venice’s diverse cultural heritage + history. Help us launch the FIRST-EVER museum for Venice, CA! veniceheritagemuseum.org
