#OneRouge Friday Community Check-In (Week 98)


Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in EBR, The Walls Project has been hosting weekly video calls with leaders of nonprofits, foundations, city government, and local businesses from a
cross the parish. The intention of these weekly community check-ins is to share information and resources to help the Baton Rouge community respond and recover from the pandemic. Weekly topics range from access to basic needs such as food, medical care, and safety to thought-leaders' insights on equitable opportunities for youth enrichment, nonprofit financial solvency, surge in unemployment, and the disproportionate impact on impoverished neighborhoods in regards to accessing fresh food.
#ONEROUGE Week #98
'Access to Quality Education: ESL in Schools'
Meeting Notes Prepared by Samantha Morgan (Walls Project)
Quick Links: Notes, Zoom Chat, Community Announcements
The main issue with English learners is the lack of quality support. They can come from a multitude of different countries. The majority of English learners in Baton Rouge are from Central America. They have experienced very traumatic experiences and then they are being plopped down in under-resourced schools. And then they’re expected to take the state test that not even native students can pass. This is an extremely difficult situation they are being placed in. We used to have ESL-centered classes, because of this support, all of the students were able to pass their state tests. The pandemic came in and twisted some stuff up. Right now it’s at Broadmoor High, and we’re being able to train volunteers to go into the classrooms and offer support to the teachers. This is a new model. To have people trained to show up for them is crucial. How can you help? Call your school board member and ask where the money is going. What’s their recruitment strategy? How are we being trained at the intersection of a language barrier and a disability? Ask about overtesting? There has to be better ways to assess learning. Support the orgs on the ground doing the work. You don’t have to speak the language to show up and care. If you can’t donate time, donate some time, and if you can’t donate money, help make their work visible on social media. We can’t live in a vacuum. Ending 287-G ICE agreement. Sign the petition.
In the local community. What we do is talk to communities and we do a lot of evaluation work and development, especially around arts and social justice. Our work with English learners has been with families. IN addition to the lack of resources they feel a lack of empathy. They feel welcomed by their own community, but out in the larger community they feel a lack of connection. Add in the language barriers and the culture barriers and you have a whole subset of people who don’t feel welcomed to participate in the community and schools. When your parents don’t speak the language, you don’t have a lot of English learner parents that show up to the schools. What are the ways we can help parents advocate for their children? I’m a transplant to Baton Rouge and I speak the language, but some of the Baton Rouge communities were closed to me. So one of the things we’ve been doing is breaking down those walls with story exchanges. They talk to a prompt and we share each other's stories. These things are really powerful. We also have healing art sessions. IT can be as simple as celebrating the birth of a child. For us, when we get adults in the room and we talk about these celebrations we find things in common. It comes across to kids and parents that teachers don’t care, but teachers say they are hesitant because they don’t know what to do, they don’t know how to work with parents who don’t understand the language. One of the things we’re doing is working with a select group of parents, like a PTA, who can work with parents and help usher them into the community.
We intentionally look at the disparities around racial demographics and education. We see achievement gaps for black and brown children. It’s hard to ignore. We see a six pillar model for intervention. We don’t like to say schools are failing, they are simply under-resourced. In the model, the first pillar calls for a rigorous education model - we have to set a curriculum that meets their needs. The second pillar calls for highly qualified teaching. The third is for wrap around supports. Fourth pillar calls for restorative justice. 5th pillar calls for family and community partnerships. 6th pillar calls for inclusive learning.
https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2020-06/Comm%20Schools%20ToolKit-final%20digi-web-72617.pdf
This model has been proven to work throughout the country. There was a school in Austin, Texas, within the first few years their graduation rates soared. They were able to infuse some English language learning to reach the needs of the children and also parents. It was language justice in practice. They were very intentional about reaching people in their culture. We have a sustainable community schools model in Baton Rouge. It was at capitol elementary. They were able to increase their school performance score by 4 points in the first year. They got awards from the state. We can’t dismiss the progress this school made with this model. But they ended the program.
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Alex - The largest speaking group are spanish speakers. We also have students who speak farsy arabic and chinese, but the primary language is spanish.
What are the ways people can support the work you’re doing
Alex - there’s still the huge thing about access to college. Not all english learners are undocumented, but a large amount are and that means you dont have a shot at college. You’re already coming from low income families and then you don’t have state aid. You’re also being asked to work to support your family. It’s not impossible, but it’s very rare that undocummented english learners make it to college. It’s been over 10 years that they have been trying to pass the dream act.
More of the attention goes to Spanish speakers because there are more of them. There’s a lot of discrimination for our muslim students. I would love to say we have the tools and resources to make everyone feel inclusive, but we don’t always have that.
Leslie Grover - Undocumented students typically have an easier time getting in to HBCUs, especially the smaller private universities. A lot of times, they help massage the paperwork to help the students get access to these things. One of the things happening in schools that’s lovely, is that the students themselves take care of those students. They did find a sense of welcome in the churches. The faith community has a huge role in breaking down those silos. That’s particularly true for the Vietnamese students. If you want to learn to speak those languages there are churches that provide English learners. Right now schools are in such a silo, but the truth is in our community we don’t live in silos. Our schools deal with health and health is where we live. Our schools should reflect that.
Manohar Ramkumar Patole - I first came to Baton Rouge and everyone I was introduced to was either black or white and everyone was some sort of christian. This idea of the other is what I’m talking about. As a person who was not black or white going to a new york public school, I was constantly harassed. It still happens today. Whether folks like to hear it or not, it happens everywhere. Everyone here has to understand that there is some cultural competency that goes beyond black and white and there are other religions and cultural norms that don’t align. This plays out from the adults to the children. There are other things that might be playing into that. We are having this great conversation about other languages, but you have to be cognizant of your day to day interactions and how that plays out with your kids. They observe that.
Maria Harmon - Before I started Step Up, I’m a young black girl from Lake Charles. I went to Southern University for political science and I Dr. Grover was my research advisor.
Alex I moved 8 years ago to BR. We do have a lot of conversations about black and white. We have to remember everyone else. The black and white binary is something we have to deal with daily. Let’s not marginalize the other people who need to be part of the conversation. That includes who is invited to these meetings. I also want to uplift the alliship when white and black members of the community go in hard for the immigrant community. I want to make sure we don’t stop short.
Leslie Grover - I think we need to hear more stories. I think we need to have more of a discussion on this so we can understand. I also want to say that, there has to be room for all the things when we’re talking about the wellbeing of this community. We do have a lot fo contend with in white supremacy and whiteness. In terms of putting people into certain types of categories because it affects our life span and how we move with one another. It affects how we cocreate with one another. When people don’t give you a seat at the table, you take a seat at the table, but it’s more the power of deciding that we need a table. There are the things that go unspoken. Fish don’t know what water is. There’s so much racism that’s built into this country. We have not come to terms with race and inequality and whiteness in this country. Until we begin to have these honest conversations we’re going to keep doing this. I cannot end what Im saying without hyping up Maria. I’m so honored to be working with her. We got some work to do in terms of really, really having some real conversations and putting some real actions behind those actions.
Maria Harmon - I’m humbled to be in this space. This is such a powerful conversation. When you look at how our youth are being treated in a way and how they are only responding to what they are seeing. Everything is so much more visible now than when I was a teenager. I think about issues of bullying in schools. It makes me think about how that household looks. It’s on us as adults to foster places of healing.
Alfredo Cruz - I came here from Tallahassee Florida. What I’m hearing are marginalization, lack of access, all of these conditions that make young people frustrated. There’s an institution that’s recruiting young people feeling anger and those are gangs. Baton Rouge is positioned on a corridor that has a lot of gang activity.
Omar Minhas - If I could go back and give my parents the blueprint for success.
Rev Alexis Anderson - The lack of joy of learning about other cultures is lost when our worlds are shrunk. Who’s your people. Let’s ask them who they are and what they need from us. I can only speak from my experience, it’s been amazing to learn what I didn’t know. It isn’t just the schools, it’s in the courts, it’s in the medical fields, it’s in the grocery stories. Even within our own cultural communities we have prejudice, racial, and class issues. BEcause you come from a certain culture doesn’t make it monolithic. We have to recognize that. There are people we live next door to that we don’t like.
Leslie Glover - This has just been profound. I’m glad I can attend more of these meetings. I’m so encouraged by the people on this call. This is the most honest space I’ve been in in a long time.
Pepper Roussel - I am impressed, as in it’s made an impression on me about colonization, witness, is universal. It doesn’t matter who you are as long as you are not a part of whiteness. I am thrilled that we are talking about having a potluck. That’s how we welcome each other and share. I consider myself an ally.
Ted Holmes - Easter egg event
Lesie - We are doing a traveling art exhibit and we would love for the exhibit to spend time in different places. We are looking for 30 youths and families to participate in mask making. $50 for the supplies. We would love to see the exhibit featured in different places in the community.
19th JDC First Appearance Family Support Center has moved to the River Center Branch Library. Tuesdays from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Background Checks Seminar at the East Baton Rouge Library @ Goodwood on March 30th from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hispanic or latino
Alex - Because we have such a complicated history of colonization, no word is perfect. Latin X is used more because of gender inclusivity. The Spanish language is still the language of a colonizer. Just please ask people what they prefer.
You’re going to have to use some hyphens. Just be consistent with your branding.
Zoom Chat
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 08:22 AM
Leslie please connect with Morgan Udoh (healing arts) at morgan@thewallsproject.org
From Me to Everyone 08:30 AM
Good morning, folks! If any of you are here, but do not get the call recap email that comes out every Saturday morning, please share your email address in the chat or message me directly.
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 08:31 AM
TNO, LOCAL OFFICIALS SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR TORNADO RESPONSE
Volunteers meet Friday, March 25th, 1:30pm
Central Missionary Baptist Church, 1438 Alabo St
to volunteer, sign up here
Arabi - Together New Orleans & local officials are seeking volunteers for outreach to tornado-affected families in Arabi tomorrow, Friday, March 25th at 1:30pm.
Volunteer staging is at Central Missionary Baptist Church, 1438 Alabo St, a half-mile from Arabi.
From Ted Holmes IDEA SoLA to Everyone 08:38 AM
Yesssssss!!!
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:38 AM
Super important questions to ask!!
From Lis Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 08:38 AM
Bringing home the point of intersectionality.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:40 AM
Good calls to action!
Baton Rouge Immigration Rights Coalition and Louisiana Organization or Refugees and Immigrants is doing great work.
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 08:40 AM
Also stop the Ban on "social emotional learning" so needed for these kids!
From Lis Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 08:41 AM
There’s a ban on social emotional learning???
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 08:41 AM
school board wont allow the term. Says it is connected to critical race theory
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 08:42 AM
Personal Tip: Advocate for your adult ESL learners as well. Download the google translate app and have it at the ready. You’d be surprised how many times you’ll encounter a ESL community member at the pharmacy, grocery, or local restaurant in need of a buddy to help translate at the counter.
From Lis Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 08:42 AM
wow wow wow.
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 08:42 AM
Thank you for this Alex! I think I heard you say a large number of ELL are from Central America? Also, What languages are included in our schools' ELL programs?
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:42 AM
Absolutely!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 08:43 AM
Yes Morgan!!! Adult learners matter too!
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 08:43 AM
schools can be so off putting to parents. They aren't always welcoming
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:44 AM
Who would go somewhere they are not welcome!
Yes, natives don't always understand that every community has cultures that shut others out.
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 08:44 AM
If anyone is interested in where the national pushback on ‘Critical Race Theory’ originated the answer is Fox News! Watch this episode on the ‘Where Does Mainstream Media Go Wrong?’ W/ Jon Stewart - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzeoe4m1t9Q
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 08:45 AM
We saw one school where at the entrance to the office there was a poster full of sex offender mug shots. really inappropriate
From Helena Williams to Everyone 08:47 AM
Is there something similar to an IEP for ESL?
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:47 AM
The late Sadie Roberts-Joseph was one of the best community ambassadors in doing events to welcome immigrant communities to Baton Rouge. After Katrina the Odell S. Williams Museum of African American History did luncheons and dinners to welcome our friends and neighbors that had migrated to Baton Rouge!
Pepper rocks! Pepper rocks!
From Lis Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 08:47 AM
^^^^
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 08:48 AM
Yes, Rev. Anderson! We miss her work so much.
Maria is AWESOME! We love her!
From Taryn Branson to Everyone 08:49 AM
Yes! She absolutely is awesome and so loved!
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:54 AM
Maria is an amazing force of nature!
Under-resourced is the accurate description for how we operate in low wealth communities.
You can not say you love the children and not value and empower their caregivers!
We need to focus on needs assessments and screening over risk assessments.
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 08:54 AM
If you have questions for these incredible community advocates please place them into the chat. Also if you do work in the community around this topic please raise your hand to speak
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 08:55 AM
That's beautiful. When schools are true resource hubs rather than carceral risk managers... Our communities thrive.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 08:57 AM
At the Louisiana Behavioral Health Advisory Council Children and Youth Subcommittee Meeting on March 30th @ 10:00 our topic will be the "Impact of Domestic Violence on Our Children" This is a virtual meeting and all our invited.
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 08:57 AM
what a great concept!
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 08:57 AM
YASSS Maria! Sustainable schools is the way!
From SK Groll to Everyone 08:58 AM
SO grateful for the information that all of the speakers shared and for this conversation
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 08:59 AM
Deaf/HOH Learners?
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:00 AM
Dr. Torres can you speak to the Hattians and Afghanistan communities that have become part of the Baton Rouge community and how those children are being treated?
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 09:01 AM
can students be admitted to colleges if they are undocumented?
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:01 AM
Election in Baton Rouge is March 26th!
From Ted Holmes IDEA SoLA to Everyone 09:01 AM
Are there any organization in the Baton Rouge area that we can connect with that helps our immigrant families to find gainful employment?
From Maria Harmon - Step Up Louisiana to Everyone 09:01 AM
Link to 6 pillar community school model: https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2020-06/Comm%20Schools%20ToolKit-final%20digi-web-72617.pdf
From Edy Addison-CAUW to Everyone 09:02 AM
Catholic Charities is doing wonderful work with immigrant families and employment.
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:02 AM
Thanks, Maria!
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:08 AM
It does matter!
Yes we do and sometimes people who aren't faith based don't realize they can reach out to this community.
Together Baton Rouge is starting to step into this direction of partnering with groups like the Baton Rouge Immigrants Rights Coalition to make that connection.
"The Other" is important.
From Christopher Spalatin to Everyone 09:09 AM
👏👏
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:10 AM
Thank you for saying that. Even in certain cultures the distinctions are sometimes as specific as the region, the sect, etc.
Thank you, Manny!
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:10 AM
AMEN. Actions are LOUD
From David Summers to Everyone 09:10 AM
Manny kept it LIGHT! So much more to say about that
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:11 AM
Thank you MANNY for that! I appreciate you sharing that part of your story.
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:11 AM
I think we are overdue for a conversation in the social sector about the mismatch between serving populations and daily acting/voting against them.
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:12 AM
Maria has LONG BEEN AMAZING. Not enough time to hype and learn about her stellar work.
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:13 AM
^yes. We cannot advocate for them in public space and then denigrate them privately at the voting booth or in familial conversations. Call out the stereotypes fearmongering assumptions every time with everyone.
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:13 AM
Amen @Morgan
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:15 AM
So grateful for her gifts! Maria is a fierce advocate for resources to Lake Charles!
From Jen Tewell (she/her) to Everyone 09:15 AM
Can you repeat that org/platform
From Regina she | her to Everyone 09:15 AM
Thank you all for these incredible conversations, resources and care
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:16 AM
All good… Manny is fine :-)
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:17 AM
Yes indeed!
From Rinaldi Jacobs Sr to Everyone 09:18 AM
you rock Dr. Glover. Rinaldi
From Regina she | her to Everyone 09:19 AM
Absolutely
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:19 AM
I do admit that Tribal and HBCU’s are so underrated when it comes to orientation and integration of other populations entering the higher education system.
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:19 AM
Take us to Church Dr. Leslie!
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:19 AM
Say that!!!
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:19 AM
CHISOLM!
From Ted Holmes IDEA SoLA to Everyone 09:20 AM
We have to build our own tables sometimes
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 09:20 AM
such an eloquent speaker
From Maria Harmon - Step Up Louisiana to Everyone 09:20 AM
Preach!!
From Leslie Clay (She/Her/Hers) to Everyone 09:20 AM
The racism is everywhere indeed...
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:20 AM
Just had this discussion prior to the call. We don't understand the power of inclusion.
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:21 AM
“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” AND “The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.”
From Helena Williams to Everyone 09:21 AM
Just a society steeped in rugged individualism
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:21 AM
Yt supremacy will convince us that a scarcity mindset is the norm so that we infight over crumbs rather than dismantling the strictures that create that scarcity in the first place.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:21 AM
We got work to do!
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:22 AM
IDK if others have seen this. I was given this from Dr. Kim Mosby: https://www.thc.texas.gov/public/upload/preserve/museums/files/White_Supremacy_Culture.pdf
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:22 AM
I credit Dr.Lori Martin at LSU and Local DEI consultant Joaquina Reed with educating me on whiteness as a power structure and how whiteness continues to other folks.
From Helena Williams to Everyone 09:22 AM
💯Morgan
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 09:23 AM
I feel like I am in the presence of so much talent and greatness in these meetings. This is my weekly hopefulness boost
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:23 AM
Yes. Yes.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:23 AM
Say that!
From Toni Bankston to Everyone 09:23 AM
Thank you Alex, Maria and Leslie for speaking your truth. It is OUR truth. The forces in our community to oppose inclusion, diversity and equity are there and powerful and often hidden or covert. And I'd just like to add that there are consequences for those who choose the route of being an ally or activist for justice and equity.
From Regina she | her to Everyone 09:23 AM
Thank you all so much for your time and care. Until next time!
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:24 AM
@Toni so very true! And Thank you Toni!
From Aimee Moles to Everyone 09:24 AM
on to the next meeting. Happy weekend!
From Ava Smith to Everyone 09:26 AM
Powerful concept
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:26 AM
People will go where they are heard. Good or bad.
From Lis Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 09:26 AM
From Alex Torres to Everyone 09:26 AM
Petition to end 287(g) ICE agreement in Louisiana: https://www.foundationforlouisiana.org/ending-east-baton-rouge-sheriffs-office-287g-agreement-with-u-s-immigration-and-customs-enforcement/
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:26 AM
Same with young yt children and far right groups.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:27 AM
Exactly. Pain unacknowledged and unhealed always become TOXIC!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:27 AM
Thank you Alfredo!
From Me to Everyone 09:28 AM
Random fact: When I was working in media, law enforcement's official position was that Baton Rouge does not have true gang activity. They are called "clicks" because they do not fit the official criteria for "gang." because of such, there's ONE guy who monitors that official gang activity.
I hope that's changed, but pre-pandemic, that was the official line.
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 09:28 AM
Thank you Alfredo. Thank you Manny. And thank you Morgan, Toni, Rev. Anderson, Sherreta, and Aimee for all your sharing in the chat today
From Liz Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 09:29 AM
Thank you, Omar!
From Maria Harmon - Step Up Louisiana to Everyone 09:29 AM
@manohar thank you for sharing!
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:29 AM
Thank you so much for sharing!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:29 AM
@samantha Out of curiosity, what is the official criteria for a gang?
From Omar Minhas to Everyone 09:29 AM
Thank you for the forum!
Thank you everyone! 🙏🏽
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:29 AM
It may be my story but it is not a unique story to the Other experience in America.
From Leslie Clay (She/Her/Hers) to Everyone 09:30 AM
This is my last meeting in my current role. I have moved back to Chicago so I can't continue to do the work that I do. This is an AMAZING coalition that has shared so much valuable information. I am so grateful to have taken part. If anyone knows of a great community partner that would like to work with LPHI my job description will be shared. I am hoping for a great person to serve Region 2. I have to run. Continue to make Good Trouble, advocating and educating.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:30 AM
We have to build out in the budget resources for these services!
From Helena Williams to Everyone 09:30 AM
Bye Leslie <3
From Me to Everyone 09:32 AM
@Sherreta - I honestly never fully understood the reasons. It made no sense to me. It has to do with organization. Apparently the activity in Baton Rouge is not "organized" enough to be official "gangs." Again, it makes no sense. To me, I assumed it was a lack of transparency in reports being filed with the FBI, which is where the funding came from for the gang officer. I always wanted to dig into that as a story but I wasn't given the time to work on it.
I would love to see us get more law enforcement involved on these calls.
From Toni Bankston to Everyone 09:33 AM
have to get into my car to head to another appt. Will try to join back in from there.
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:34 AM
Please include low skilled (adult basic education)adults in that workforce conversation. Adult Literacy Advocates offers/offered ESL classes for adults who also work.
From SK Groll to Everyone 09:34 AM
Thank you Rev Anderson for bringing this forward! How are we moving away from a police state in ALL of our work
From Emily Chatelain to Everyone 09:35 AM
My mother has taught ESL in public school in Jefferson Parish for 45 years. She switched to Charter schools about 8 years ago and won't retire because its such a broken ESL system (lack of teachers, no one experienced). at 73 she is still teaching "her babies". Much respect for ESL teachers!!
From Ted Holmes IDEA SoLA to Everyone 09:35 AM
Yes... we need multilingual and multicultural school leaders, teachers, and staff. Our students need to see themselves represented in our schools. We are always hiring Tedrick.Holmes@ideapublicschools.org
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:36 AM
behind the glass!!!!!
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:36 AM
“International” section
From Pamela Johnson to Everyone 09:36 AM
Amen!
From Thomasina Joseph to Everyone 09:36 AM
Preach Rev Anderson
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:36 AM
Whew! Tell it!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:36 AM
I had to beg for conditioner!
From Maria Harmon - Step Up Louisiana to Everyone 09:36 AM
Preach Rev Anderson!!
From Pamela Johnson to Everyone 09:37 AM
Yes
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:37 AM
Yep!!!!
From Me to Everyone 09:38 AM
Definitions of gangs: https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/what-gang-definitions
From Thomasina Joseph to Everyone 09:38 AM
Happening too often with our youth…we are not listening!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:39 AM
If we're allowed to have favorite Friday calls, then this would be one of mine :)
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:39 AM
Yes this is a good space!
From Omar Minhas to Everyone 09:40 AM
Thank you, Dr. Grover! 🙏🏽
From Me to Everyone 09:40 AM
Can you put your email in the chat
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:40 AM
Culture Pot Luck at the Walls parking lot :-)
Fundraiser, 10$ a plate?
From Thomasina Joseph to Everyone 09:40 AM
Scotlandville-Banks Alliance is having a community bike ride April 2
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:40 AM
Thank you Dr. Grover!
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:40 AM
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:40 AM
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:40 AM
225-615-0519
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:40 AM
Also, tomorrow is an election day in EBR!!! Remember this conversation when you head to the polls!
From Ava Smith to Everyone 09:41 AM
OneRouge needs a broadcast station, telling it like it is. Thanks
From Cheri Soileau to Everyone 09:41 AM
If CATS can help, let me know.
From Helena Williams to Everyone 09:41 AM
😎
From Tom Donley to Everyone 09:41 AM
Thank you everyone! Are there any resources for people wanting to learn Spanish in a group environment in Baton Rouge? Apps are great, but you miss so much without being in a group.
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:41 AM
Also love this space as I am using the shared knowledge base to develop a core curriculum at NYU around ERJ (which is very difficult to get through)
From Ted Holmes IDEA SoLA to Everyone 09:41 AM
Team, please share this upcoming event. There will be many free resources for families.
From Alfredo Cruz, Housing 1st Alliance to Everyone 09:41 AM
woo hoo! love it! broadcast this!
From Mary Bergeron to Everyone 09:42 AM
What a perfect set up for what's coming...how's that for a teaser?
From Helena Williams to Everyone 09:42 AM
I’m a very shy Spanish speaker, so a kind place to practice is very needed for me!
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:42 AM
I am heading out. However I am planning to try to be local in May
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 09:42 AM
Thank You Manny
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:42 AM
Alex Torres, much love!
From Manohar Ramkumar Patole to Everyone 09:42 AM
Appreciate you all!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:42 AM
Tom, check out Adult Literacy Advocates for classes.
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 09:42 AM
Walls office is at your disposal
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:42 AM
@Tom I utilize shopping at IDEAL and La Morenita as informal opportunities for immersion.
From Alex Torres to Everyone 09:43 AM
From Me to Everyone 09:43 AM
@Maria - can you drop your email in the chat, please
From Alex Torres to Everyone 09:43 AM
Humanities Amped Amplify Hope Drive is going on now! To donate or join the mailing list go here to http://www.humanitiesamped.org/
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:43 AM
Fair Chance Ordinance!
From NBester to Everyone 09:43 AM
This is my first time being with the group and I have truly enjoyed the meeting. My name is Nanette Bester and I am the Outreach Director for Southeast Community Health System. I was invited by Leslie Clay.
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:44 AM
Welcome Ms. Bester, lovely to have you.
From Morgan Udoh (She/Her/They) to Everyone 09:44 AM
Nanette we look forward to having you at future meetings!
From Liz Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 09:44 AM
Props to Rev. Anderson for always being so positive, welcoming, affirming, and insightful!
From Maria Harmon - Step Up Louisiana to Everyone 09:45 AM
maria@stepuplouisiana.org (337) 244-1517
From Omar Minhas to Everyone 09:46 AM
Breaking bread brings everyone together! 🙏🏽
From Liz Shephard (LifeCity) she/hers to Everyone 09:47 AM
Have to head out to another meeting - great call!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:48 AM
We're still collecting stories like the ones shared here for the Black Futures Quilt Project. The goal is to develop an oral history archive about Black Life in Baton Rouge. You don't have to be Black to contribute and I believe it enriches the conversation to have perspectives from everyone.
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:48 AM
for more information visit, https://metromorphosis.net/blackfutures/
From Caitlyn Scales to Everyone 09:48 AM
Need to jump for another call. Thank you all!
From Casey Phillips to Everyone 09:48 AM
Thank you Caitlyn!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:49 AM
I am also very interested in expanding the conversation to include intersectionality
From Omar Minhas to Everyone 09:50 AM
Thank you, Dr. Bell! 🙏🏽
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:55 AM
19th JDC First Appearance Family Support Center has moved to the River Center Branch Library. Tuesdays from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Background Checks Seminar at the East Baton Rouge Library @ Goodwood on March 30th from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Please review the bills being moved in the legislature and get to the capitol, reach out your legislators and talk to your neighbors.
April is Second Chance Month!
April 22, 2022 is the 26th Annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference in Baton Rouge.
From Alex Torres to Everyone 09:56 AM
https://www.loveyourcityawards.com/
From Rev. Alexis Anderson to Everyone 09:57 AM
Remember to give love to our neighbors that were hit by the tornadoes!!
From Leslie Grover to Everyone 09:58 AM
Thank you Morgan for saying that!
From Sherreta R. Harrison to Everyone 09:58 AM
https://calendly.com/sharbreon/black-futures-story-share?month=2022-03
Community Announcements
19th JDC First Appearance Family Support Center has moved to the River Center Branch Library. Tuesdays from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Background Checks Seminar at the East Baton Rouge Library @ Goodwood on March 30th from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Please review the bills being moved in the legislature and get to the capitol, reach out your legislators and talk to your neighbors.
April is Second Chance Month!
April 22, 2022 is the 26th Annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference in Baton Rouge.
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We are kicking off year two of Safe Hopeful Neighborhoods, a hub of neighborhood engagement and resident empowerment in Baton Rouge, with our annual Operation Cleanup during National Community Development Month. Every Saturday in April - join other volunteers,EBR Metro Council Members, Safe Hopeful Neighborhood partners, and I as we work together to create a stronger, more vibrant Baton Rouge. This a coordinated city-wide effort to fight blight in our community to make it safer, healthier, and more hopeful! We need your help to Keep Louisiana Beautiful! RSVP today on Facebook to stay up to date on project locations and volunteer opportunities and keep an eye on your inbox for registration. Thank you for your continued support of Baton Rouge communities! Yours in Peace, Prosperity, and Progress,
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Please join us for the opening reception for the What I Wore exhibit that is taking place as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The exhibit is sponsored by the Lighthouse Program, LSU Libraries, The Office of Civil Rights & Title IX and the Women’s Center. The exhibit was originally scheduled to take place in April 2020, but was postponed due to COVID. What I Wore is inspired by similar exhibits that stared in 2014 at the University of Arkansas. The exhibit will be open from April 4th-April 29th in the Student Union Art gallery and on the 2nd floor landing in the LSU Library. Light refreshments will be served. Please feel free to share this invitation with anyone who may want to attend the opening.
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The application can be found on the Reilly Center’s website here. Please have interested community members apply on our site, or feel free to nominate them using the form and I will reach out to them directly. The application can also be accessed here. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 25.
If you would like to talk more about the project or potential participants, please feel free to reach me via email at achav23@lsu.edu. I hope to hear from you soon.