LASA 2020-2021 kicked off the summer Zoom sessions with spirit, curiosity, and gratitude for the chance to explore LA together. Using break out rooms, we met each other and mapped routes amongst homes and schools. This largest class of LASA reaches across the county and the maps revealed their creativity and that IKEA Burbank is a point of common knowledge and interest!
Then, Professor Paula Schiffman of Cal State Northridge spoke about LA as an “urban forest” and as Maaso framed her presentation, “spoke to my inner animal lover, hooking my interest.” Maya shared, “We learned about the different ecosystem services that the wildlife in Los Angeles provides to its urban surroundings. It was especially interesting to see how socio-economic status relates to tree- density on streets, migratory bird density, and year-round bird density.” Olivia reflected, “She presented an incredibly unique argument about vegetation, and it has changed the way I see wealth and gentrification in LA.”
During our second summer meeting, we examined the political foundations of LA. Cal State LA Professor Raphe Sonenshein introduced us to the framing of horizonal governments/power in LA and opportunities for student engagement. His biographical story and energy for the possibilities of future LA enlivened the morning.
Students then spent time in smaller groups discussing specific LA issues of their choosing that may require a political element for resolution. From tax revenue education projects to calls for equal access to quality education, students shared their passion for civic engagement and reflected on steps they believe are required for change.
On day 3 we turned to issues of homelessness in the county. Students came prepared with informed and essential questions for our guest, Will Lehman, Sr. Manager, Systems Integration with Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). Students asked about current governmental plans, the intersection of homelessness and COVID, obstacles to addressing current realities, as well as the importance of mental health and social services. Will’s knowledge and his appreciation for continuing to learn more about the racial, systemic injustices causing homelessness resonated with LASA.
On our final day of the summer, we looked outwards from LA to global issues surrounding plastics and how they impact our home. USC Professor Josh Goldstein presented a riveting deck of slides on the history and current state of the use and harms of plastics on a global scale. Neni framed the state of the situation as “frustrating” and the presentation as “very enlightening.” Ava’s attention was captured by “the plastic audits taking place in the Philippines and the possibility of doing that in Los Angeles.
It seems like an impressive and effective way of holding corporations directly accountable for the environmental harm they’ve done.” As we concluded our time together, we shared the oldest things we could find in our homes – from family Polaroids to petrified wood. Students and teachers alike noted that they look forward to a time when we can meet in person. But for now, we are moving forward together digitally.
We are grateful for the time and participation of our students, teachers, and speakers – as well as those who donate to make LASA possible. Maaso reminded us of the core of LASA, continuing to equip students with the tools to “impact our home the most.” And Neni reflected that the summer “taught [her] there is still room for me to make change.” We look forward to our Zoom meeting in September and the year together.