The Los Angeles Turners, a part of Los Angeles since 1871, were founded by German immigrants who promoted Turnen (the German word for Gymnastics) as an essential part of life. They brought Physical Education to schools in Los Angeles and promoted their principles as stated below. Our mission is still - after more than 145 years - A Sound Mind in a Sound Body and the promotion of the Turners Princi
ples, as well as of German Culture and History in Los Angeles. The Turner Principles - 1871 Charter:
We believe in
Liberty against all opression
Tolerance against all fanaticism
Reason against all superstition
Justice against all exploitation
Free speech, a free press, free assembly for the discussion of all questions so men and women may think unfettered and order their lives by the dictates of conscience, which we strive to attain through a Sound Mind in a Sound Body
We endorse every effort to equalize conditions in our economic life to abolish class distinctions and maintain all human rights
We believe every human being should be accorded every opportunity to secure for him or herself by mental and physical labor a dignified and decent livelihood.
