People are shaped and defined by various factors in their lives. Some of these include, but are not limited to, the environments we grow up in, the people we have in our lives, and the lessons we teach and take wherever we go. All these factors have an impact on who we are and who
The availability of safe spaces geared toward women of color, more specifically, East African women, is crucial to these women achieving success throughout their college careers. The sense of belonging fostered in safe spaces can be the grounding factor for individuals experiencing a lack of community on their campuses. However, a safe space is not
The East African Cultural Center is an established place many residents of City Heights consider a safe, comfortable space. The Hall holds a lot of traditions and cherished memories such as weddings, graduations and community gatherings. The Center is located on Fairmount Avenue between University Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard, an area considered by many
What does City Heights look like, feel like, taste like, and smell like? The food (in City Heights) is very unique. City Heights has a lot of restaurants, but at the same time, it has good food from all over the world. You can smell different types of food from each block - from Ethiopian
Women empowerment is a powerful topic, especially in City Heights. My story is about the impact Muslim women leaders in City Heights make in this community, and the realities behind the struggles and criticism they may face. Women leaders in City Heights inspire the young women in our community to believe anything is possible. It
In my experience, traditional Muslim families tend to have their daughters grow up thinking their main priority in life is cook, clean, caretake, get married and repeat. Young Muslim women are often raised to believe they do not need an education, do not need to go to college, or worry about anything that is a
Community-based centers and organizations create stable, safe places for youth and community members to feel connected. Many of these spaces and places provide education and literacy programs, as well as services that support youth in developing leadership and communication skills. They also provide opportunities for youth to voice their own opinions without feeling doubtful
My name is Dylan Anderson. My pronouns are he/him and they/them. I identify as a biracial, transgender person of colour, but I mainly identify as an artist. Most times I use paint as well as other kinetic mediums when I create my art, but I also use photography and other digital mediums to express my
What does City Heights look like, feel like, taste like, and smell like? photo by Christina Chomut The food (in City Heights) is very unique. City Heights has a lot of restaurants, but at the same time, it has good food from all over the world. You can smell different types of food
Youth voice has always been vital to social and political change. Young people shape the way we see social progress and our future, yet sometimes the power of youth voice is forgotten. We are told that we are “too young,'' that we “don’t know enough,” that “our opinions are invalid.” These sentiments have the power
