4/4 Weeks done in the 2023 Annenberg Youth Academy. Over the past weeks, we have passionately gone over civic engagement and how it naturally connects to society and the media as whole. It has been an amazing experience gaining more knowledge every day with wonderful colleagues from Los Angeles County. Every person has such a unique voice that we are able to hear every day with an open mind. Very great activity where we have about 20 minutes to brainstorm with each other and professor as it allows us to gain new insight perspectives.
We have reviewed topics such as hip hop, critical media literacy, media representation, stereotypes and many more topics regarding media and community. This week, we reviewed concepts such as digital media, chicano terms, and participatory movements online. Aside from this, one comment made by the professor on Wednesday’s reading caught my attention! Professor Rogelio Lopez stated how the majority of the murals surrounding Los Angeles have deep meanings. To support his claim, he gave a specific location around the University of Southern California which he claims that the mural links back to the Black Panther party happening in Los Angeles in the late 90s.
When mentioning these claims, I immediately agreed with every single statement. Majority of the murals convey a message which is a very fantastic way to spread awareness to the communities. Unfortunately, not every person who comes across a mural understands the meaning behind it. However it turns into a positive situation as it is a great opportunity for them to learn something new. Researching even more about the mural and the context behind it makes it absolutely more intriguing. Not only is the content behind the mural the only positive but it is also the use of ART.
The use of art in South Central, Los Angeles is very powerful as it brings more mental consciousness to the community. Murals are one of many expressions of art getting people more engaged with history. It can be used to engage citizens as they can relate to certain events and culture which often happens in their neighborhood. Art gives us a way to ask ourselves WHY? So when often looking at art in my city, I ask myself why this was drawn and what is trying to inform me. Which is why I believe art can be seen as a helpful resource to learn more about life and society.
Overall, the meanings behind murals are very remarkable to the community as it serves as a way to engage more into society.
WAIT HOLD UP
RUN IT BACK
Man oh man, what a magnificent four weeks it has been with everyone. I have no regrets attending this summer program as we got to review very deeply into communications and journalism. Would make it informal but I am using this journal as a way to show my gratitude to Professor Rogelio, Miki, and my colleagues. I want to thank Prof.Rogelio for giving us an amazing opportunity for young journalists to publish their hard work online as well as making us gain new knowledge. Miki for strengthening our media skills and giving each student a piece of wisdom as well as being cool 🙂. Last in foremost, thanks to everyone who got out of their comfort zone to get to know me, such as spending breaks and lunch time together, and being open minded. Would make this longer and formal but I will in tomorrow’s speech (;
Also, What an amazing guest morning speaker on the second last day of the Annenberg Youth Academy.
THANK YOU BRITTANY
THANK YOU KAILYN
THANK YOU ANTONIO
Communicating Change 