In this episode of Grass & Roots, Toree sits down with Lauren Jones, Executive Director of Shreveport Green, to explore how community-driven environmental work can spark powerful change. From addressing food inequity through mobile markets and urban farming to restoring tree canopies and educating neighbors about sustainability, Lauren shares how Shreveport Green is cultivating a healthier, more connected city. Together, they discuss the role of education, access, and shared responsibility in building a future where both people and the planet can thrive.

In this episode, Toree sits down with Tasha Guidry to explore the challenges and triumphs of community advocacy in Lake Charles, Louisiana. They focus on the ongoing recovery from natural disasters and the importance of understanding individual needs through criminology and life coaching.

The conversation highlights the power of active listening, collaboration with local professionals, and the need to educate communities on available resources and navigating government systems. Toree and Tasha delve into the long-term recovery efforts following hurricanes Laura and Delta, the role of civic engagement and local journalism, and initiatives like Displaced that document the experiences of disaster-affected residents.

Tasha also offers valuable advice for aspiring community advocates, emphasizing passion, empathy, and consistency as the keys to meaningful service work.

In this episode, host Toree sits down with writer and professor Dr. Megan Poole to discuss her journey from Southwest Louisiana. Megan shares how storytelling preserves culture and community identity, emphasizing the importance of local voices in conversations about climate change and cultural preservation. She talks about using writing to foster connection, the need for reciprocal relationships in marginalized communities, and her upcoming projects on sugarcane farming and the history of enslaved individuals in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This conversation highlights the power of listening, storytelling, and understanding cultural histories.

In this episode, Toree reflects on the importance of community engagement and the challenges posed by convenience culture. She discusses the need for intentional living, supporting local businesses, and the significance of storytelling in preserving culture. The conversation emphasizes the value of shared experiences and the necessity of fighting against distractions to foster deeper connections within communities.

In this episode, Jennifer takes us through her journey as a community organizer and youth advocate, sharing her personal experiences and the founding of her organization, Speaking to Inspire Through Experience. She dives into the importance of fostering open communication between parents and youth, the transformative power of mentorship programs, and the need for proactive community engagement. Jennifer also discusses the structure and impact of her mentorship program, the value of workshops, and her work with youth in the justice system and the implications of Amendment 3 (which didn't pass yay!). With a focus on political involvement and community action, Jennifer encourages listeners to get engaged and make a difference.

In this episode, Dauda Sesay takes us through his inspiring journey, which ultimately led to the creation of the Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants. This organization is committed to empowering refugees and immigrants by offering access to essential services and support, helping them achieve self-sufficiency. Dauda shares his vision of humanizing the immigrant and refugee experience, urging us all to bridge divides and foster unity in our communities.

Check out the Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants to learn more about their amazing work!

https://www.mylori.org/

In this episode, Kristen Luchsinger shares her journey from political disengagement to becoming a passionate advocate against censorship in St. Tammany Parish. She discusses the formation of the St. Tammany Library Alliance, emphasizing the importance of diverse materials in libraries and the challenges faced in fighting book bans. In this conversation, Kristen discusses the ongoing battle against book bans and censorship in libraries, particularly in St. Tammany Parish. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement, awareness, and advocacy in protecting public libraries. Kristen shares insights on how to organize against censorship, the role of local politics, and the necessity of forming alliances to combat these challenges. She encourages listeners to take action, get involved, and hold elected officials accountable to ensure the preservation of libraries as vital community resources.

Check out the St. Tammany Library Alliance and show them your support!

https://www.sttammanylibraryalliance.org/

https://www.facebook.com/StTammanyLibraryAlliance

In this episode, Toree talks all about the upcoming Louisiana election on March 29th and why she’s voting NO on all four amendments on the ballot. She breaks down each amendment, shares how she came to her decision, and gives you the info you need to make your own choice. Early voting runs from March 15th to 22nd, so don’t forget to get out there and vote!

Resources mentioned in the video (& a few extras):

• Geaux Vote App
• Say No To Them All, Y'all Campaign Website
• Voice of the Experienced - No to Them All
• Vote to reject the state’s costly push to fill Louisiana jails and prisons | The Lens
• The Louisiana legislature’s plans to cage our future: the March 29 ballot amendments | The Lens
• Amendment #2 Fact Sheet | Invest in Louisiana
• Reading between the Lines: A Deeper Look at Amendment 2 | Invest in Louisiana
• Amendment 2 does not provide a permanent teacher raise | Invest in Louisiana