Reshma Dordi | Showbiz India TV
Last week we sat down with May Pro Tem, Ali Sajaad Taj of Artesia, to talk about Los Angeles’ Urban Greening project.
With California slated to see $100 billion of federal and state funding for climate mitigation, adaptation and resiliency, we look forward to Los Angeles seeing 10% of it.
The significance of green spaces in urban areas extends far beyond climate considerations. Studies have shown that green spaces can lower levels of stress and reduce rates of depression and anxiety, reduce cortisol levels and improve general well-being. This makes it more important than ever to ensure that not only are we expanding green spaces in Los Angeles, but also targeting areas with the greatest need.
Historically, lower-income neighborhoods with predominantly minority populations have lacked adequate tree canopy and green infrastructure compared to wealthier areas. This disparity prompted the Justice 40 Initiative, which marks the first time in U.S. history that the federal government aims to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits from specific federal investments in climate, clean energy, affordable housing, and sustainable development flow to disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by pollution and under-investment.
Given the ongoing mental health crisis in the United States, the presence of green spaces in Los Angeles is invaluable, particularly in historically underserved areas.
This story was produced as part of the Greening of LA ethnic media project, a collaboration between EMS and UCLA/LENS.
Reshma Dordi produced this fellowship story for Showbiz India TV, the pioneering South Asian broadcast television show for the past 26 years.
“Urban Greening: An Interview with Artesia Mayor Pro Tem Ali Sajjad Taj” is an interview with Artesia Mayor Pro Tem Ali Taj about how LA will use its allocated 10% of the $100 billion in federal and state funding that California will use for climate mitigation, adaptation and resilience.
“In the South Asian community in LA, green spaces like Griffith Park, Santa Monica Beach, and the San Gabriel Mountains play a crucial role in our daily lives,” said Dordi, executive producer of Showbiz India TV. “These spots are more than just escapes; they are where families gather for weekend picnics, where we celebrate cultural events like Holi and Diwali in a natural setting, and where we find solace and spiritual connection amidst our busy routines. These spaces are vital to our well-being, providing a sense of belonging and a place to recharge while staying connected to both our cultural roots and the environment around us.”
