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PhiLAnthropist: Skid Row Walk
Photo by Sundogg via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr
TAKE A WALK
It was a historic night indeed; Americans joined together to demand change and Obama eloquently answered, reminding us that this victory is thanks to commitment and dedication on the part of the American people. While the election is over, the momentum must continue; we must continue to work together to truly bring change to our lives, our city and its people. So, speaking of the need for change and the homeless, the monthly Skid Row neighborhood walk happens tonight. The situation on Skid Row serves as a perfect example of how a successful policy of "containment" has lead to a growing human tragedy.
With this new spirit of responsibility in mind, it is time to fix Skid Row. The walk allows individuals a safe way to "get to know Skid Row". While the aim is to raise awareness and keep the focus on Skid Row, the walk also offers an unique opportunity to connect and get involved with city officials, LAPD officers, social service providers, journalists, business owners, bloggers, residents and the many other individuals committed to bringing change and improvement to the people on the streets.
Walks begin at 6pm at the Midnight Mission at the corner of 6th Street and San Pedro downtown. For those who may be a bit hesitant, police Officers and BID security accompany each walk. For an interesting look at Skid Row, check out Pras' Skid Row documentary, where he spends a week living down there, or the trailer for the upcoming movie The Soloist, the true story based on the life of Nathaniel Ayers, a musician living on Skid Row and his experiences with LA Times columnist Steve Lopez.
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Simply put, we cannot do this essential work without your help. Federal funding for public media has been clawed back by Congress and that means LAist has lost $3.4 million in federal funding over the next two years. So we’re asking for your help. LAist has been there for you and we’re asking you to be here for us.
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