David Levitus

David Levitus is the Founder and Executive Director of LA Forward, a progressive organization dedicated to creating a just and vibrant Los Angeles.1 Here are some key details about David Levitus:

Background and Education

David Levitus has a strong academic background in history and economics. He majored in History and Economics at New York University as an undergraduate.1 Later, he earned a Ph.D. in History from the University of Southern California, focusing on patterns of metropolitan development and political power over the last century.1

Career and Activism

After his studies, David transitioned from academia to grassroots activism and policy advocacy. His experiences during graduate school, including volunteer work in social justice organizing, led him to pursue a career in creating change from the ground up.1

Founding LA Forward

David founded LA Forward with a group of fellow Angelenos to build progressive power in Los Angeles.1 The organization is structured as a family of nonprofits:

• LA Forward: A 501(c)(4) nonprofit focused on supporting progressive policy and holding elected officials accountable
• LA Forward Institute: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving as the educational arm of LA Forward1

Publications and Affiliations

David has published long-form essays on progressive politics and urban policy in the LA Review of Books and Streetsblog Los Angeles.1 He is also involved with several other organizations:

• Board Member: Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance (KIWA), KIWA Action, and LA Voice Action
• Member: Social Venture Partners Los Angeles 2019-2021 Systems Accelerator cohort
• Former Fellow: Coro Lead LA, Ashoka Emerging Social Innovators, and Starting Bloc1

Through his work at LA Forward and various other roles, David Levitus continues to advocate for progressive policies and social justice in Los Angeles.