MHD Off the Record
Podcast

MHD Off the Record

112
0

MHD Off the Record takes you inside Los Angeles City Hall with Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Each episode explores the culture, politics, and policies shaping life in Los Angeles from housing and homelessness to city planning, public safety, and immigrant rights.

Focused on uniting neighborhoods across the city, the MHD Off the Record podcast blends political insight with community-driven solutions. Listeners hear conversations with civic leaders, activists, and community stakeholders that reveal how multicultural organizing, music, and personal stories influence the direction of Los Angeles.

If you’re curious about how Los Angeles City Council makes decisions, want to learn about city resources, or care about the future of South LA and beyond, this podcast gives you the context and voices behind the policies that impact Angelenos every day.

MHD Off the Record takes you inside Los Angeles City Hall with Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Each episode explores the culture, politics, and policies shaping life in Los Angeles from housing and homelessness to city planning, public safety, and immigrant rights.

Focused on uniting neighborhoods across the city, the MHD Off the Record podcast blends political insight with community-driven solutions. Listeners hear conversations with civic leaders, activists, and community stakeholders that reveal how multicultural organizing, music, and personal stories influence the direction of Los Angeles.

If you’re curious about how Los Angeles City Council makes decisions, want to learn about city resources, or care about the future of South LA and beyond, this podcast gives you the context and voices behind the policies that impact Angelenos every day.

112
0

[Re-Air] Ep 7: What is the Role of Community Connection in Mental Wellness? feat. Dr. Cheryl Grills

Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson and co-host Chavonne Taylor discuss the importance of viewing psychology and mental wellness from a community perspective with Dr. Cheryl Grills. Dr. Cheryl Grills is a Clinical Psychologist with a current emphasis in Community Psychology. She is also a full-time Professor and director of the Psychology Applied Research Center at Loyola Marymount University as well as a Governor appointee on the California Reparations Task Force and Chair of LA County Sybil Brand Commission. www.bellarmine.lmu.edu/psychology/parc/ourteam/cherylgrillsphd Episode Spotify Playlist
World and society 4 days
0
0
0
34:05

[Re-Air] MHD OTR South LA Highlight: Wellnest

On this episode, Chavonne Taylor speaks with Paco Retana, Vice President of Programs at Wellnest, a nationally acclaimed, and leading provider of emotional health and wellness services to children, young adults, families, and their communities. As Vice President of Programs at Wellnest, he is responsible for all clinical services, including program evaluation and training. He also oversees the areas of outpatient, early intervention, intensive services and life learning/transition age youth services. He is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Masters in Social Welfare from UCLA. Resources: www.wellnestla.org www.wellnestla.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Wellnest-2021-Annual-Report.pdf Ring the Alarm The Crisis of Black Youth Suicide in America
World and society 2 weeks
0
0
0
38:07

Ep. 40: What Does it Take to Lead a Global City? (Feat.

In this episode of MHD Off the Record, Council President Marquise Harris-Dawson sits down with former Los Angeles Mayor and U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti. Returning to his roots in the San Fernando Valley, Garcetti reflects on his journey from the youngest City Council President in LA history to representing the United States on the world stage. Ambassador Garcetti served as the 42nd mayor of LA from 2013 to 2022 after 12 years on the City Council, including six as Council President. As mayor, he led major initiatives such as raising the city’s minimum wage to $15, securing the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and launching LA’s Green New Deal. He later served as U.S. Ambassador to India from 2023 to 2025, strengthening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two countries. He currently serves as Chair of C40 Cities, the global network of mayors focused on tackling the climate crisis. Resources: www.ericgarcetti.com Community Announcements: If you or someone in your household relies on Medi-Cal, now is the time to act. Apply or renew your Medi-Cal benefits today at dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal. If you need help navigating the process, the Mayor’s Fund We Are LA Hotline is available at 213-584-1808.
World and society 1 month
0
0
0
48:33

[Re-Air] Ep. 33 Are Community Resources Truly Accessible? (Feat. Rocsii Woolley and Lauren Brazile)

Los Angeles is a huge city with many resources and opportunities. However, figuring out how to get access to the right resources—whether it’s housing, jobs, or financial support—can be overwhelming. So who should be responsible for making sure people get the help they need? Should the government be doing more, or are community organizations better equipped to step in? Are we empowering ourselves, or are we asking too much from the system? Sitting down with Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson to answer these questions are Lauren Brazile, President of We Grow LA, an organization dedicated to empowering communities through resources, education, and support, and Rocsii Woolley, Founder & CEO of The Source LA, who has helped thousands secure jobs, housing, and business opportunities while advocating for community-driven solutions ***************************************************** Sign up for our newsletter at beacons.ai/mhdcd8 ****************************************************** Resources Lauren Brazile is the president of We Grow LA (WGLA), an organization dedicated to empowering communities through resources, education, and support. Under her leadership, WGLA strives to create a more equitable and just society for all. She has been instrumental in providing the community with essential tools and knowledge, as evidenced by her participation in events like the Know to Grow Masterclass, where she collaborated with figures such as comedian Watts Homie Quan, choreographer Storm DeBarge, and educator Champ Reggie Foster. Lauren is also an active member of GLAAAC, NAACP, and Forbes BLK and is currently a fellow in the Black Girl Ventures 2025 cohort and BMO Bank 2025 Venture cohort. Her commitment to economic empowerment and community advocacy continues to shape opportunities for those historically excluded from access to resources and support. Website: www.wegrowla.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/wegrowla (@wegrowla) Rocsii Woolley is a devoted wife, mother, woman of faith, entrepreneur and community leader. As the Founder and CEO of The Source LA, she has been a driving force in providing housing, employment, and essential resources to underserved communities. With over a decade of HR experience, she’s helped hire over 10,000 community members and supported more than 400 individuals in securing stable housing. She also manages the Watts Business Source Center at Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), offering business solutions to local entrepreneurs, and serves as Chapter Advisor for The Black Professionals Network, strengthening professional connections and fostering community development. Rocsii’s impact has earned her numerous accolades from the County and City of Los Angeles, Inglewood, Compton, Long Beach, and the state of California, including the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and medallion. A marketing expert with a large social media following, she also provides strategic social media services through her consulting agency, helping businesses expand their reach and impact. As a mentor and business visionary, Rocsii remains committed to creating pathways for others to succeed and thrive. Website: www.thesourcela.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesourcela Want to learn more about Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson and LA's Council District 8? Follow @mhdcd8 on Instagram and sign up for the newsletter at mhdcd8.org! Sign up for MHD Off the Record Newsletter at beacons.ai/mhdcd8
World and society 1 month
0
0
0
33:58

Keys to the City: Mayor's Office of Community Safety

On this episode, we’re exploring how Los Angeles is redefining public safety beyond enforcement. The Mayor’s Office of Community Safety, led by Deputy Mayor Karen Lane, is building a citywide network of programs rooted in prevention, healing, and opportunity. We’ll be discussing everything from youth mentorship and violence interruption to reentry support and community-led crisis response. Karen Lane launched the city’s first Office of Community Safety under Mayor Karen Bass. With deep roots in criminal justice reform and philanthropy, she leads efforts to invest in community-driven safety strategies and sustain programs that strengthen families and neighborhoods. Gilbert Johnson leads the City’s Strategic Reentry Initiatives, connecting justice-impacted Angelenos with employment, housing, and support services. A South Central native and longtime community organizer, Gilbert’s work centers on helping people rebuild their lives after incarceration and contribute meaningfully to their neighborhoods. Community Announcements LA Mobility Plan - www.mobilityactionplanla.org Justice Fair 2025 - www.justicefair.org
World and society 2 months
0
0
0
52:48

Ep. 39: How Do We Turn Cultural Influence Into Economic Power? (Feat. James Fauntleroy)

On this episode, LA City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson sits down with singer, songwriter, producer, and artistic creator James Fauntleroy. James is a four-time Grammy Award winner and one of the most influential songwriters of his generation. He recently co-wrote "Die With A Smile" by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars, which won an award at the 2025 Grammys, hit No. 1 (5 wks) on Billboard and became the fastest song to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify on its way to topping the platforms global chart for 200+ days - the longest in the apps history. James also co-wrote seven songs on Bruno Mars’ multi–Grammy-winning album 24K Magic, including That’s What I Like, which earned Song of the Year and made him the first [pure] songwriter to ever win an Album of the Year Grammy. Driven by a belief in access and opportunity, Fauntleroy builds platforms that merge creativity with community impact. In addition to a number of creative initiatives, he founded Laboratory, a workforce and entrepreneurship hub located in the Crenshaw District, and co-founded the 1500 Sound Academy, an international music school expanding access for creatives worldwide. Through partnerships with leading brands such as Disney, NFL, Roland, and others, James continues to build projects that bridge music, design, and education. Across all of his initiatives, Fauntleroy is dedicated to creating opportunities for all voices and building pathways to sustainable careers Resources www.goodwillsouthflorida.org/about-goodwill/spirit-goodwill-band www.grammy.com/artists/james-fauntleroy/17853 Community Announcements: Food Resources in LA www.instagram.com/p/DQaSSGjEm1U/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Brotherhood Crusade Turkey Giveaway Where: Algin Sutton Recreation Center 8800 S Hoover St, Los Angeles, CA 90044 When: Thursday, November 20th from 10am to 1pm. Note: First come, first served. Drive Thru ONLY.  More info: Stacy Hill-Williams (323)846-1649 swilliams@brotherhoodcrusade.org
World and society 2 months
0
0
0
47:27

South LA Highlight: Cooking with Gabby

Cooking With Gabby was founded by Steven “Chef Steve” Vasquez Sr. and his wife Lisa. Their vision was to address the serious health challenges facing children and families—specifically poor nutrition, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It began with Chef Steve and his daughter Gabby cooking healthy meals together and sharing the benefits of nutritious eating, fitness, dance, and active lifestyles throughout their community, starting when Gabby was a young child. By 2006, Cooking With Gabby had formalized its mission: to reduce health disparities in low-income communities, where issues like obesity, diabetes, and poor nutrition are prevalent. As a non-profit, the organization has since reached thousands of children and families, equipping them with tools and education to lead healthier lives from an early age. Resources: www.cookingwithgabby.org Community Announcements Halloween Events  Halloween at St. Andrews Park St. Andrews Park 8701 S St Andrews Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90047 Thursday, October 30th 6 to 9 p.m., with a $2 haunted house. Friday, October 31st 4:30 to 9 p.m. this time, the haunted house is free! Haunted Night in the Park! King Park Rec Center 3916 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90062 Friday, October 31st 2:30 to 7 p.m - Completely free for all ages! Halloween Night Party Harvard Park Rec Center 1535 W 62nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90047 October 31st from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m Dia de los Muertos 24th Street Theatre 1117 W 24th St, Los Angeles, CA 90007 Sunday, November 2nd, from 6 to 10 PM
World and society 2 months
0
0
0
26:35

[Re-Air] MHD OTR South LA Highlight: 24th STreet Theatre

On this episode, Los Angeles City Council District 8 staffer, Chavonne Taylor, speaks with Jay McAdams, Executive Director of the 24th STreet Theatre, a unique organization blending professional productions and world-class artists with quality arts education since 1997. Their mission is to engage, educate, and provoke young people and their families with excellent theatre and arts education.  Jay is a producer, having produced dozens of theatrical productions over the last 20 years and won LA Weekly’s 2011 Production of the Year Award. He is also a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and is a 2011 Leadership LA Fellow. Among his other leadership training is LA County Arts Commission’s Arts Leadership Initiative, the Annenberg Leadership Institute, and the prestigious Stanford University Executive Program for Non-Profit Leaders, where Jay won a Center for Social Innovation Fellowship. Resources: www.24thstreet.org www.instagram.com/24thst PHONE: (213) 745-6516 E-MAIL: theatre@24thstreet.org
World and society 3 months
0
0
0
46:20

Ep. 38: What is California's Prop. 50?

On this episode, the roles are shift a little... Producer, Chavonne Taylor, steps into the host seat to interview Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson about Proposition 50, the single item on California’s November 2025 special ballot. At its core, Prop 50 would put new, temporary voting maps in place for the upcoming election — a direct response to efforts in Texas and other states to tilt congressional districts in President Trump’s favor. The measure has sparked confusion and misinformation, with some claiming it ends independent redistricting. In this conversation, we break down what Prop 50 actually says, why it’s temporary, how it connects to national politics, and what’s at stake for Black and Brown communities in California and beyond. Resources: Statewide Special Election – November 4, 2025 Registration deadline: October 20 Ballots mailed: October 6 Ballot drop-off locations open: October 7 Early in-person voting begins: October 25 (in all Voter’s Choice Act counties) Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by: November 4 and received by November 12 Every active registered voter will automatically receive a vote-by-mail ballot. You can return it by mail, drop box, or directly to your county elections office. For details, visit sos.ca.gov/elections or call 916-653-6814. www.instagram.com/mhdcd8 www.mhdcd8.com Community Announcements Taste of Soul 2025 – tasteofsoulla.com
World and society 3 months
0
0
0
33:47

Ep. 37 How Can Communities Protect Each Other? (Feat. Maya Suzuki-Daniels & Lupe Cardona)

On this episode, we’re talking with Maya Suzuki-Daniels and Lupe Carrasco Cardona about immigrant rights, community safety, and the grassroots organizing behind the Harbor Area Peace Patrols. These patrols, launched in San Pedro, are part of a broader effort by the Community Self-Defense Coalition — an alliance of more than 65 organizations across Los Angeles and Southern California working to defend immigrant rights and respond collectively to ICE activity. Maya is a teacher, union leader, and a founding organizer of the Harbor Area Peace Patrols. Lupe is an award-winning Ethnic Studies educator, chair of the Association of Raza Educators in LA, and a steering committee member of the Community Self-Defense coalition. Together, along with many other community members, they’re helping shape community-led models of safety and solidarity that challenge traditional policing and center immigrant justice. Resources: www.instagram.com/communityselfdefensecoalition www.instagram.com/harborareapeacepatrols Community Announcements Central Ave Jazz Fest - centralavejazzfest.com California Secretary of State Voting Info - sos.ca.gov/elections or call 916-653-6814
World and society 4 months
0
0
0
50:55

Ep. 36 Why Do We Need Public Investment in Youth Sports? (Feat. Renata Simril)

Renata Simril is the President and CEO of the LA84 Foundation, a nationally recognized leader in youth sports equity and legacy planning. Under her leadership, the foundation has expanded access to sports for young people across Southern California, particularly in underserved communities, with a focus on closing the play equity gap. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Renata brings a deep understanding of the city’s challenges and opportunities. Her career spans the military, private sector, and public service, including leadership roles at the Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers, and the City of Los Angeles. She also played a key role in the development of the Staples Center and was instrumental in launching the Play Equity Fund where she serves as president, the only nonprofit in the country focused solely on equity in youth sports. A fierce advocate for inclusion, Renata operates at the intersection of civic leadership, community impact, and youth development. As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, she is helping shape a legacy that ensures all Angelenos, especially those in historically excluded neighborhoods, benefit from this global event. Resources: www.la84.org www.playequityfund.org IG: @renataangeleno @la84foundation @playequityfund Community Announcements: CicLAvia - www.ciclavia.org/ciclavia_historic_south_central_meets_watts25 California Secretary of State Voting Info - sos.ca.gov/elections or call 916-653-6814
World and society 4 months
0
0
0
50:02

Ep. 35 What Does it Take to Protect Immigrant Rights? (Angelica Salas and Ernesto Rocha)

On this episode, we delve into the critical issues of immigrant rights, the profound impact of storytelling, and how both shape justice and community in Los Angeles. Angelica Salas is a nationally recognized immigrant rights leader and Executive Director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (or Chirla), a Los Angeles-based non-profit organization that advocates for the human and civil rights of immigrants and refugees, working to advance justice and full inclusion for all immigrants . An immigrant from Durango, Mexico, Angelica came to the U.S. as a child and later became a citizen in 2008. Since joining CHIRLA in 1995 and becoming its director in 1999, she has helped grow the organization into one of the country’s most influential immigrant-led groups, leading major local and national campaigns for immigrant justice—including drivers’ licenses for undocumented people, in-state tuition and aid for undocumented students, and DACA protections. She also helped found key national coalitions like FIRM and NPNA and serves as a powerful spokesperson for immigrant communities across media and policy spaces. Resources: www.chirla.org Instagram: @chirla_org Ernesto Rocha aka ‘undocubae’, is an organizer, storyteller, artist and TEDx Speaker. He has over 15 years of community organizing and storytelling experience. His work focuses on advocating for systematically impacted communities, immigrant rights and low wage workers in various industries in Los Angeles. Ernesto uses the power of story to explore identity and narrative formation as a process of collective empowerment and liberation. He is a sought after curator and creative director that works with non-profit organizations, governmental agencies and art/cultural centers to produce original storytelling installations/activations to advance the understanding of complex social justice issues. He worked at Community Coalition for 8 years and served as the Associate Director of Art + Culture. He graduated from UCLA with a Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and Chicana/o Studies and is currently pursuing his Masters in Fine Arts from the USC Roski School of Art. Resources: Instagram: @undocubae linktr.ee/undocubae Community Announcements Family Source Centers: l4families.org LA Legacy Business Grants: bit.ly/LAlegacy (link is case-sensitive) LA Business Source Centers: bit.ly/BusinessSource10 (link is case-sensitive)
World and society 5 months
0
0
0
01:06:30

South LA Highlight: Low Rider Solidarity and Unity Ride

In this episode, we sit down with Andre Christian of Watts Life United, Roman Maldonado from Thee Illusions Car Club, and Dwight Lewis of the National Lowrider Association. These men are some of the organizers behind the Stop the Hate & Stop the Raids Solidarity Ride taking place August 10th and kicking off  9am at Mcarthur park. This event was created in direct response to the recent wave of ICE raids across Los Angeles, especially in South Central. It aims to demonstrate solidarity and support within communities facing political turmoil. The ride is explicitly designed as a Black and Brown initiative, emphasizing moving together as one. We talk about how the lowrider community is using culture as protest, as protection, and as a tool to strengthen Black and Brown unity during a time of fear and rising tension. Resources: Register for the Lowrider Solidarity and Unity Ride at https://bit.ly/unityridela For questions about the event email wattslifeunited@gmail.com or call Nira at (323)213-7588 Community Announcements: South LA Pride: www.southlapride.com LA Legacy Business Grants: bit.ly/LAlegacy (link is case-sensitive) LA Business Source Centers: bit.ly/BusinessSource10 (link is case-sensitive)
World and society 5 months
0
0
0
37:00

South LA Highlight: 27th Street Bakery

Jeanette Bolden-Pickens is the third-generation owner of 27th Street Bakery, a historic South LA business known nationwide for its legendary sweet potato pies. A proud Angeleno, she took over the family legacy started by her grandfather in 1956—keeping its deep community roots while expanding its reach across the country. Under her leadership, the bakery has weathered everything from economic shifts to a global pandemic, all while staying true to its mission of serving tradition by the slice. Before returning to the family business, Jeanette was a world-class sprinter and Olympic gold medalist. She later became one of the most respected coaches in the sport, leading the UCLA women’s track team and making history in 2008 as the first Olympic gold medalist to head the U.S. women’s track and field team at the Olympics. Her path from the Olympic podium to running one of LA’s most iconic family businesses reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence. Resources: www.27thstreetbakery.com Instagram: 27thstreetbakery Community Announcments FamilySource Centers: LA4Families.org Legacy Business Grants: bit.ly/LAlegacy (link is case-sensitive) LA Business Source Centers: bit.ly/BusinessSource10 (link is case-sensitive)
World and society 6 months
0
0
0
50:06

South LA Highlight: Breaunna Alston of Destination Crenshaw

Breaunna Alston is the Communications and Marketing Specialist for Destination Crenshaw, a community-led public art and cultural infrastructure project along Crenshaw Boulevard. Originally from Sacramento, she brings a strong background in media arts and a passion for storytelling to her work. After transferring from UC Merced to Clark Atlanta University, she earned her degree in Mass Media Arts, gaining hands-on experience at CAU TV and WCLK Jazz Radio. She joined Destination Crenshaw as an intern before transitioning into a full-time role. Through her communications efforts, she helps amplify Crenshaw’s story and create space for Black Angelenos to connect, celebrate, and thrive. Outside of her professional work, she’s also a music artist, using creativity as a personal outlet and form of expression. Resources: www.DestinationCrenshaw.la Events for July 7th-14th Summer Night at the Museum  Paint and Sip with Live Music   July 11, 2025 6-9 pm 961 W Compton Blvd. Compton, CA 90220  Visit: nhm.org/summernights Black LA Food Tour  July 12th Party Bus Food Tour July 19th Crenshaw Crawl  July 26th Party Bus Food Tour  Location: All Chill Hip Hop Ice Cream 3415 West 43rd Pl Los Angeles, CA 90008  www.blackfoodtour.com (IG: @daisysblacklafoodtour) Everyday People  Day party and music  July 13th 4 PM - 10 PM Location: The Beehive 961 E. 61ST ST Link: www.instagram.com/p/DL0ZVGjOyo3 (IG: @everydayppl)  BreatheGood Yoga  July 13th 9:30 AM -12:00 PM Location: The WalkGood Yard 4019 W Pico Blvd Link: www.walkgoodla.org IG: @walkgoodla Breathe Good: The Best Man (movie screening) Movie in the park  July 13th 8 PM Location: The WalkGood Yard 4019 W Pico Blvd Afro Latino Culture Fest July 19th // 3 PM - 11 PM  Location: LA Plaza De Cultura Artes 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA Free Entry  Link: https://lapca.org/event/second-annual-afro-latino-culture-fest-free The warmest Winter Ever (Concert) Performance from iconic artist and songwriter James Fauntleroy July 19th  Los Angeles  Link: jamesfauntleroyii.com The Playground Adult Field Day  July 20, 2025 1 PM - 7 PM  Flag Football, Tug-o-war, 3-legged race and more Location: Kenneth Hahn Park 4100 S. La Cienga Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90056 Link: https://peerpop.io/view/events/theplaygroundanadultfieldday+2025-07-20
World and society 6 months
0
0
0
35:25

LA Resource: Know Your (Immigration) Rights

On this episode of MHD Off the Record’s LA Resources, we speak with Ritu Mahajan Estes of Public Counsel about your rights regardless of immigration status, what to do during an ICE encounter, and how communities can safely support one another during times of increased enforcement. Rithu Mahajan Estes is the Directing Attorney of the Community Development Project at Public Counsel. She leads the team providing pro bono legal and policy support to nonprofits, small businesses, street vendors, and community coalitions across Los Angeles County. Under her leadership, the project achieved a major victory in securing a groundbreaking settlement with the City of Los Angeles to eliminate discriminatory “no vending” zones and reimburse affected vendors. A former Supervising Senior Staff Attorney, Ritu brings deep experience in transactional legal services, impact litigation, and community organizing. Resources: ICE FAQ for Small Businesses and Nonprofits: https://publiccounsel.org/publications/faqs-on-nonprofit-and-small-business-rights-with-respect-to-immigration-enforcement-ice/ Public Counsel Immigrants' Rights KYR Information: https://bit.ly/KYR-immigration Public Counsel Family Preparedness Guides: https://publiccounsel.org/publications/a-guide-to-planning-for-your-childs-care-family-preparedness/ LA Street Vendor Campaign Go Fund for Street Vendors Impacted by ICE Raids: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-street-vendors-impacted-by-ice-raids CLUE Justice Detained Immigrant Bond Fund: https://www.cluejustice.org/support-the-detained-immigrant-bond-fund/ Community Announcements CHIRLA Immigrant Assistance Line Call: (888) 624-4752 Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Languages: English and Spanish Services include: • Know-your-rights information • Reporting ICE activity • Case updates and immigration questions • Referrals to trusted legal services Visit: www.chirla.org/resources/immigrant-assistance-line-2
World and society 7 months
0
0
0
36:31

Keys to the City: South LA's Development Services Center

On this episode, we speak with Kinikia Gardner, a Senior Planner with the Los Angeles City Planning Department. With more than two decades of experience in urban planning, Kinikia has focused her career on making the planning process more accessible and equitable, especially for historically underserved communities. She currently leads the South LA Development Services Center, one of only a few centers across the city where residents, business owners, and developers can get in-person help with permits, zoning, land use, and development questions. These centers are part of the Planning Department’s effort to demystify a process that often feels out of reach for everyday Angelenos. Kinikia is also a member of Black Planners of Los Angeles, a Qualified Minority Employee Organization within the City that helped push for the creation of the South LA center. Resources planning.lacity.gov planning.lacity.gov/project-review/south-los-angeles-development-services-center appointments.lacity.org/apptsys/Public/Account South LA DSC Address: 8475 S. Vermont Avenue, 1st Floor Email: planning.southla@lacity.org Instagram: www.instagram.com/planning4la Community Announcements Event Name: CicLAvia Neighborhoods Featured: Historic South Central, Florence-Firestone, Watts Date: Sunday, June 22nd Time: 9 AM to 4 PM Location: Central Avenue & 103rd Street Website: www.ciclavia.org/ciclavia_historic_south_central_meets_watts25
World and society 7 months
0
0
0
31:18

[Re-Air] How Can We Understand Black History Through Art? Feat. Naima Keith

MHD and Co-Host Chavonne Taylor speak with Naima Keith, Vice President of Education and Public Programs at LACMA, about the important role of Black Art in LA History. Naima J. Keith is the Vice President of Education and Public Programs at LACMA. Within her role, she oversees all aspects of and sets the vision for LACMA’s innovative and exhibition-driven educational programming that serves more than 650,000 community members annually. Prior to her position at LACMA, Keith was the Deputy Director and Chief Curator at the California African American Museum where she guided the curatorial and education departments as well as marketing and communications. Resources www.naimajkeith.com Episode Spotify Playlist
World and society 8 months
0
0
0
38:58

*Bonus Episode*: Tackling LA's Budget feat. Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky

Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky represents LA’s 5th District and currently serves as Chair of the City Council’s Budget, Finance, and Innovation Committee. A native Angeleno and environmental attorney, she brings a policy-driven approach to tackling some of the city’s most urgent challenges, including fiscal responsibility, climate resilience, and equity. As Budget Chair, Yaroslavsky is at the forefront of navigating a billion-dollar deficit facing the city. She is focused on ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the budgeting process while protecting core services like homelessness response, public safety, and infrastructure. Her leadership reflects a balance of compassion and pragmatism, making sure that Los Angeles builds toward long-term stability without losing sight of the people impacted by budget decisions. Resources councildistrict5.lacity.gov
World and society 8 months
0
0
0
22:00

South LA Highlight: Vallarta on Crenshaw

Cesar Gonzalez is the Chief Operating Officer of Vallarta Supermarkets, a family-owned grocery chain founded in 1985 and rooted in California’s Latino communities. Under his leadership, Vallarta has expanded to 59 stores, including 27 in Los Angeles County. In 2025, Vallarta opened a nearly 50,000-square-foot store at Crenshaw and Slauson, a predominantly Black neighborhood that had gone without a full-service grocery store for four years. The store brings culturally relevant offerings, local vendors like Dulan’s Soul Food, and over 165 jobs to the area, representing a significant investment in community health, food access, and economic opportunity. Resources Location: 3300 W Slauson Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90043 Website: vallartasupermarkets.com Instagram: vallarta.supermarkets
World and society 8 months
0
0
0
29:55
You may also like View more
ROCA PROJECT Un Podcast para personas que buscan inspiración, aprendizaje y crecimiento personal. En Roca Project, Carlos Roca pone el foco en el valor humano conversando, sin filtros y en profundidad, con expertos, personajes influyentes y personas anónimas con una historia impactante que contar. Si buscas un podcast que te entretenga pero que además te aporte valor, este es tu podcast. Todos los miércoles a las 19:30 horas. Updated
Black Mango Podcast En este podcast te contamos todo lo que siempre quisiste saber! Historia, crímenes y por supuesto aventuras! Updated
No es el fin del mundo, por El Orden Mundial El podcast semanal de El Orden Mundial (EOM) para entender qué pasa en el mundo. Análisis, contexto y matices sobre la realidad internacional. Porque estar al día de qué pasa más allá de nuestras fronteras no debería ser ni complicado ni aburrido. Síguenos en redes en @elordenmundial y descubre nuestro contenido en https://elordenmundial.com/ Producido por The Voice Village. Updated
Go to World and society