CHOP IT UP:

Who and What We Do It For

South Los Angeles, historically known as South Central, is home to a large number of Black Americans who have faced significant health disparities. These disparities stem from a long-standing history of systemic racism and discriminatory policies that have created socioeconomic disadvantages for the Black community in the area. As a result, Black Americans in South Los Angeles experience higher rates of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity than their counterparts in other parts of the city.

Another contributing factor to the health disparities in South Los Angeles is their environment. Black residents are constantly dealing with high levels of pollution, lack of green spaces, and limited access to healthy food options. This, coupled with the high rates of poverty in the area, has resulted in a community that faces significant barriers to optimal health.

It is important for people with lived experience to tell their stories and be engaged in policymaking and community organizing using media as a medium for social change. Allowing people, especially transitional age youth (TAY: ages 16-25), to voice their experiences and perspectives on topics related to health equity and social justice can be a powerful catalyst in the current movement to improve the health, well-being, and healing of communities with the more egregious health outcomes. The voices and experiences of marginalized communities are critical in advancing public health equity and promoting a more just and equitable society, especially in South Central LA! This oppourtunity offers the next generation of leaders an early start on campaigning for social medicine, public health, social justice harnessing the power of media.