LOS ANGELES—“Rooted” is a community-based discussion series, designed by filmmaker Elizabeth Gray Bayne and in partnership with the Nature Nexus Institute & Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, inviting Black residents to reflect on their relationship to nature, environmental racism, and ways they might increase their engagement with the natural world. This three-part series beginning August 18 will offer community forums, facilitated by local humanities experts, and arts and wellness workshops, led by local artists, poets and wellness instructors, in parks around Los Angeles. They are designed to combat the physical and mental health disparities, such as chronic disease and stress, that often result in low income communities in Los Angeles County. All events will be free and open to the public.
August 18: “Finding Justice in Photography”
Facilitated discussion on the intersection of mobility and environmental justice, followed by workshops on nature photography and yoga.
September 22: “Reconnecting Through Words”
Facilitated discussion on family mythology and ancestral connections to nature, followed by workshops on nature-inspired poetry and yoga.
October 20: “Drawing Healing & Inspiration”
Facilitated discussion on feelings of belonging in and being in nature and therapy, mental health, followed by workshops on nature sketching and yoga.
For questions, please contact: Elizabeth Gray Bayne, media@graybayne.com
