Ice Cream and Advocacy: A Sweet Blend of Business and Activism in Los Angeles
June 13, 2025, 9:36 pm
In the heart of Los Angeles, a wave of activism is rising, blending the flavors of culture with the urgency of social justice. At the forefront is SueEllen Mancini, a 34-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Sad Girl Creamery. Her ice cream stand is more than just a place to indulge in unique Latin-inspired flavors; it’s a beacon of hope for immigrant rights. As protests against federal immigration enforcement escalate, Mancini finds a way to contribute, even while juggling her responsibilities as a caregiver.
Mancini’s journey began in 2021, armed with a $300 ice cream maker and a passion for her heritage. She crafts flavors like chocoflan and guava jam cheesecake, each scoop a tribute to her Uruguayan and Chilean roots. Her business, a “microbusiness,” operates out of a commercial kitchen in Culver City, but its impact reaches far beyond the confines of a storefront.
In a recent initiative, Mancini pledged to donate 20% of sales from her pop-up at downtown LA’s Smorgasburg event to The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). This organization fights for the rights of immigrants, a cause deeply personal to Mancini. Her older brother was deported when she was a teenager, a painful chapter that still echoes in her family’s life. The scars of that experience fuel her commitment to advocacy.
Mancini’s story is not just about ice cream; it’s about resilience. She understands the struggles of immigrant families firsthand. Her brother, who arrived in the U.S. as an infant, was unaware of his immigration status until it was too late. The family continues to bear the financial burden of legal fees in hopes of bringing him back. This personal history shapes her mission to support others facing similar challenges.
Los Angeles is a melting pot, with nearly half of its population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Mancini’s business thrives in this vibrant community, where cultural connections run deep. She uses her platform to raise awareness not only for immigrant rights but also for mental health issues, which often remain stigmatized in Latino culture. By intertwining these causes with her business, she creates a unique space for dialogue and support.
The recent surge in immigration enforcement raids has ignited a fire in Mancini. She may not be able to protest physically, but her ice cream serves as a rallying point. Each scoop sold is a step toward change, a way to give back to the community that has shaped her identity. “Put your money where your mouth is,” she believes, and that’s exactly what she’s doing.
Mancini’s mother, Maria Lupes, plays a crucial role in the business. Together, they embody the spirit of hard work and creativity. Their bond is evident in every pint sold, a testament to their shared journey. The ice cream shop is not just a business; it’s a family affair, a labor of love that reflects their shared experiences and aspirations.
As Mancini looks to the future, she hopes to inspire others to join the cause. “Come and enjoy ice cream that’s literally inspired by these cultures,” she invites. The act of enjoying a treat becomes an act of solidarity. In a world filled with uncertainty, she believes that community support can be a powerful force for change.
Mancini’s story is a reminder that activism can take many forms. It doesn’t always require a megaphone or a protest sign. Sometimes, it’s as simple as serving ice cream with a purpose. In her case, it’s about creating a space where people can come together, share their stories, and support one another.
The challenges facing immigrant communities are daunting, but Mancini’s efforts shine a light on the possibilities for change. Her ice cream stand is a microcosm of hope, a sweet reminder that even small actions can lead to significant impact. In a city where dreams are often overshadowed by hardship, Mancini’s commitment to advocacy is a breath of fresh air.
As the sun sets over Los Angeles, the lines at Sad Girl Creamery grow longer. People are drawn not just by the promise of delicious ice cream but by the chance to be part of something bigger. They come for the flavors, but they stay for the message. In every scoop, there’s a story of resilience, a call to action, and a taste of community.
Mancini’s journey is just beginning. With each event, she aims to raise more funds and awareness for immigrant rights. Her ice cream is more than a treat; it’s a symbol of solidarity. In a world that often feels divided, she is proving that sweetness can be a powerful tool for change.
In the end, it’s about connection. It’s about understanding that we are all part of a larger narrative. Mancini’s ice cream stand is a reminder that when we come together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and support. In the face of adversity, she stands firm, a testament to the strength of community and the power of giving back.
Mancini’s journey began in 2021, armed with a $300 ice cream maker and a passion for her heritage. She crafts flavors like chocoflan and guava jam cheesecake, each scoop a tribute to her Uruguayan and Chilean roots. Her business, a “microbusiness,” operates out of a commercial kitchen in Culver City, but its impact reaches far beyond the confines of a storefront.
In a recent initiative, Mancini pledged to donate 20% of sales from her pop-up at downtown LA’s Smorgasburg event to The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). This organization fights for the rights of immigrants, a cause deeply personal to Mancini. Her older brother was deported when she was a teenager, a painful chapter that still echoes in her family’s life. The scars of that experience fuel her commitment to advocacy.
Mancini’s story is not just about ice cream; it’s about resilience. She understands the struggles of immigrant families firsthand. Her brother, who arrived in the U.S. as an infant, was unaware of his immigration status until it was too late. The family continues to bear the financial burden of legal fees in hopes of bringing him back. This personal history shapes her mission to support others facing similar challenges.
Los Angeles is a melting pot, with nearly half of its population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Mancini’s business thrives in this vibrant community, where cultural connections run deep. She uses her platform to raise awareness not only for immigrant rights but also for mental health issues, which often remain stigmatized in Latino culture. By intertwining these causes with her business, she creates a unique space for dialogue and support.
The recent surge in immigration enforcement raids has ignited a fire in Mancini. She may not be able to protest physically, but her ice cream serves as a rallying point. Each scoop sold is a step toward change, a way to give back to the community that has shaped her identity. “Put your money where your mouth is,” she believes, and that’s exactly what she’s doing.
Mancini’s mother, Maria Lupes, plays a crucial role in the business. Together, they embody the spirit of hard work and creativity. Their bond is evident in every pint sold, a testament to their shared journey. The ice cream shop is not just a business; it’s a family affair, a labor of love that reflects their shared experiences and aspirations.
As Mancini looks to the future, she hopes to inspire others to join the cause. “Come and enjoy ice cream that’s literally inspired by these cultures,” she invites. The act of enjoying a treat becomes an act of solidarity. In a world filled with uncertainty, she believes that community support can be a powerful force for change.
Mancini’s story is a reminder that activism can take many forms. It doesn’t always require a megaphone or a protest sign. Sometimes, it’s as simple as serving ice cream with a purpose. In her case, it’s about creating a space where people can come together, share their stories, and support one another.
The challenges facing immigrant communities are daunting, but Mancini’s efforts shine a light on the possibilities for change. Her ice cream stand is a microcosm of hope, a sweet reminder that even small actions can lead to significant impact. In a city where dreams are often overshadowed by hardship, Mancini’s commitment to advocacy is a breath of fresh air.
As the sun sets over Los Angeles, the lines at Sad Girl Creamery grow longer. People are drawn not just by the promise of delicious ice cream but by the chance to be part of something bigger. They come for the flavors, but they stay for the message. In every scoop, there’s a story of resilience, a call to action, and a taste of community.
Mancini’s journey is just beginning. With each event, she aims to raise more funds and awareness for immigrant rights. Her ice cream is more than a treat; it’s a symbol of solidarity. In a world that often feels divided, she is proving that sweetness can be a powerful tool for change.
In the end, it’s about connection. It’s about understanding that we are all part of a larger narrative. Mancini’s ice cream stand is a reminder that when we come together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and support. In the face of adversity, she stands firm, a testament to the strength of community and the power of giving back.