Skip to content Skip to footer
10K80 January 3, 2022
31Views 0Comments

How Binghamton Thrifts founder Olivia Le found her love for sustainability

Olivia Le is a senior at Binghamton University who pushes sustainability on campus by using her small thrifting business on Instagram, Binghamton Thrifts.

She studies business administration with a concentration in marketing and is involved with the field hockey club and the student association board on campus.

Twenty years old and from Long Island, New York, Le has built a platform through her passion for thrifting that heavily promotes saving the environment for students.  

Her growth and creation go back to March 2020 and have come a long way.

The inspiration behind Binghmaton Thrifts

“I love thrifting and before I started the business I would find a lot of the pieces that I thought were super cool or super trendy…,” said Le.

She continued, “Or I knew someone else who would love a piece that personally did not fit my style so I would leave it behind, Then I thought about blending that with my love for business, social media, and marketing.”

“I thought that it would be a good way to make some extra money on the side while promoting sustainability.”

– Olivia Le, Binghamton Thrifting
binghamton thrifts
Photo Courtesy: @binghamtonthrifts

“Not a lot of people thrift because it is very time-consuming and people don’t want to go search through a bunch of stuff for a couple of hours,” said Le.

She continued, “So, I thought this would be a great way to make it easier for people to shop sustainably. Websites and companies like SHEIN make buying so easy whereas thrifting has more effort to it.”

Le says that by using Instagram the clothing apparel is placed front and center on her page that creating an effortless feel when shopping sustainably.

In everyday society, individuals are constantly on social media platforms such as Instagram, and it has now become a universal platform to do almost anything! She uses the app to her advantage that has flourished her business.

The blueprint to the thrifting business

“I would definitely say just full sending it…”

“When I started, I did not advertise it or say who I was. I just started following a bunch of people who go to this school and eventually it started to pick up,” said Le.

The founder continued, “That is when I decided to you know to start promoting it on other personal social media platforms, told my friends about it, and told my friends to tell their friends. I just kept following a bunch of people as well because I thought it was the best way to gain exposure.”

@binghamtonthrifts

pack an order with me! ☺️ ##smallbusiness ##shopsmall ##shopsmallbusiness

♬ Cupid’s Chokehold / Breakfast in America – Gym Class Heroes

Le had a choice to make when it came down to making the best decision for Binghamton Thrifts. “I specifically chose Instagram because other reselling platforms like Depop, Poshmark, and Etsy all take a percentage of your sales and I also know that a lot of college students are not familiar with these platforms.”

“I thought Instagram would be the best to amplify the business because I can keep all my profits as well as gain more exposure especially since my target audience is university students,” she said.

Le takes into consideration the pricing of items basing them on her target audience which is college students. She emphasizes affordability while balancing profits for her business.

Her determination of pricing comes down to the quality and not necessarily the brand.

Where does she cop all this drip?

thrifting business
Photo Courtesy: @binghamtonthrifts

“Besides selling my own clothes, I started selling other people’s clothes as well on my platform,” said Le.

She continued, “I think that helps in terms of keeping things sustainable. People not throwing away their clothes or only getting a one-time use when it can get multiple uses. Once you sell it to somebody else, someone else will love it and wear it. That is one of the biggest things too.”

Le has effectively pushed sustainability on and off of her college campus. She said, “I would definitely say I made a decent mark on campus…

“If clothes don’t even sell I just donate them back to the thrift store instead of throwing them away and hopefully they go to use.”

How do you decide to let go of clothes that don’t sell?

oliva le headscarf
Photo Courtesy: @binghamtonthrifts

“I usually hold onto them for a while. Right now, I still have a decent amount of clothes that I have not sold yet or even posted on Binghamton Thrifts IG page. It just depends whether I feel like I have to do a deep clean or need to get rid of some pieces”

“Someone who does want it can have it without it ending up in a landfill.” 

– Olivia Le, Binghamton Thrifts Founder

So what’s your focus with Binghamton Thrifts?

“Educating people on sustainability, on thrifting, and how much it can benefit the earth…,” expressed Le.

“The big thing right now? I started donating a lot of profits to charities, I’ve done a Stop AAPI Hate fundraiser, a fundraiser for Black Lives Matter, and for RAINN, the rape abuse national network.

She continued, “I’m trying to definitely make more of an impact on society apart from just selling clothes and keeping sustainability consistent.”

“The two majors things is educating people more on the importance of sustainability through clothes, and helping other causes that are important to me…that are close to me”

– Olivia Le, Owner of Binghamton Thrifts

Using her inspiration and passion in creating Binghamton Thrifts

“I just love the fact that you can thrift such unique pieces, which is such a money saver. I really got into thrifting because of my mom. She actually showed me thrifting a while back and I fell in love with it,” said Le.

She continued, “Social media marketing is something I find really interesting so that is a future goal where I can be a creator out of it”

The balance between being a student and running a small business

“At first I didn’t tell anyone that it was me and I wanted to see if my clothes would sell or if it would pick up at all. There were definitely times where I felt overwhelmed, especially with school and having class at the same time because it was intense.” 

“I’ve taken month breaks at times and I haven’t been on it a while now because of school and my extracurriculars, but I am planning to start it up again over winter break and hopefully I still can gain more traction and continue to grow.”

How to cop Binghamton Thrifts?

@binghamtonthrifts

thrift haul, but make it neutral vibes 🧸🧺☕️ @BinghamtonThrifts on Instagram ##thrifted ##thrift ##thrifting

♬ Sunny Day – Ted Fresco

Simply search the hashtag #CopBinghamtonThrifts and items that are available and have not been sold yet will appear. The posts obtain descriptions, sizing, and prices that are sold on a first come first serve basis!

Check out Binghamton Thrifts (here).

With almost 4000 followers on her platform, and is commonly known by Binghamton University students, Binghamton Thrifts has been an outlet for eco-friendly new fashion finds.

Le reminds us of several aspects by being an inspiration to all by balancing the life of a student/business owner while also creating good in the world. Le has built her business on a well-rounded ground that benefits students, important organizations that create positive societal impact, and people who enjoy thrifting!

Olivia Le and Binghamton Thrifts will be continuing the mission throughout 2022!

capsule collection December 2, 2021
28Views 0Comments

New Save The Duck capsule reminds us Black people can go cruelty-free

The COMPOUND and Save The Duck have released a new collection that is 100% cruelty-free and vegan.

Individuals such as COMPOUND founder Set Free Richardson, Houston Rockets point guard Kevin Porter Jr, and Jadakiss are all featured on the new line’s promotional campaign. 

kevin porter save the duck
Kevin Porter Jr. rocks the Save The Duck pro-tech long parka jacket in black and yellow
Jadakiss Set free richardson save the duck
From Left to Right: Jadakiss rocks the Save The Duck pro-tech long parka jacket in black and yellow and Compound 7 hoodie and Set Free Richardson rocks the Save The Duck pro-tech short jacket

Here is the background to the 100% cruelty-free and vegan collection.

Who is Set Free Richardson?

Born in the Bronx, New York City, Richardson is a prominent artist, director, and founder. A creative genius who uniquely integrates ideas onto public platforms. Richardson has successfully used his creative outlet through fashion, music, sports, and more.

He has worked with AND1 mixtapes which have now become a multimillion-dollar franchise in the United States and internationally. Beyond the Save The Duck capsule collection, his known work has had him featured in national magazines such as The New York Times and USA Today.

Richardson’s creative concepts have proved that imagination can most definitely be brought to life.

The Save The Duck collection has a deeper meaning

Richardson’s seven elements capsule collection works with certified fashion brand, Save The Duck. They are known to be the best performers in social and sustainable issues that have made them the perfect partner for this collaboration. 

With COMPOUND, a brand that is driven by cultural authenticity, and Save The Duck, a brand committed to high social and environmental standards, this collection release should be something to look forward to.

It can bring both the importance of culture and sustainability to a consumer which is something great.

So what exactly is in the Save The Duck capsule collection?

Save The Duck and The Compound Capsule Collection

The seven-element Save The Duck capsule collection includes a pro-tech long parka jacket in black and yellow, a pro-tech short jacket, a Pro-tech hat/mask, pro-Tech gloves, and three graphic hoodies.

Four elements… No, seven actually

Aside from the four usual elements of fire, water, earth, and air, the collection emphasizes that within ancient civilization, wood, metal, and ether were also considered natural elements as well.

COMPOUND acknowledges these seven elements that strengthen, defend, and allow life to flourish. This new collection reminds all the fundamentals of life.

This limited winter collection will be released on December 7 and at select US retailers, and online via Compound and via Save The Duck which is just in time for the holidays and gift-giving!

Click here to access the winter collection on Dec. 7.

binge November 12, 2021
33Views 0Comments

What makes a binge-worthy show? A look into Squid Game

What does it really take for a show to be binge-worthy? Is it the plot that pulls the audience in, or the likable characters within the show?

The definition of binging is watching two to six episodes of a show in one sitting, and what was more binge-worthy than Squid Game?

binge worthy series
VIA Squid Game Store

Korean Netflix original, Squid Game has been the talk all over social media, group conversations, you name it. Since the premiere on September 17, 2021, it’s estimated that about 87 million people have completed the first season of the show.

Overtaking the views on Bridgerton, another one of Netflix’s hit shows, director Hwang Dong-hyuk says that his idea of Squid Game came from a global financial situation that hit his home area. 

Director of Squid Game talks going binge-worthy on GMA

At his lowest point in life, he related to those who were desperate for money and success which led him to imagine a survival game in comics to become reality. He wondered if he would join for the sake of his family, turning his imagination into a hit television show. 

The underlying meaning of the show was not to simply grab the money and all issues were resolved, but it has shown the issues within modern capitalism. It has the ability to target an individual’s lowest and most vulnerable point in life.

Some other factors that come from vulnerability are greed, selfishness, and betrayal that come from human nature when one is desperate. The binge-worthy show successfully executes a raw and realistic portrayal of the habits of humanity. 

“They constitute the minority in any country in the world”

Hwang Dong-hyuk

Characters such as Cho Sang-Woo and Seong Gi-Hun provide different sides of humanity that one can relate to. Sang-woo chooses greed and betrayal due to desperation regardless of who he hurts in the process of the game, whereas, Gi-Hun stays true to his morals and the goodness of humanity.

Squid Game reveals that capitalism may not obtain a negative connotation from the start, however, it results in greed that individuals may feel that they must stoop to.

Sang-Woo betrays Ali in order to survive and move onto the next game level.

This opens up the question to if capitalism was non-existent, would society and humanity be different in the way we treat people? In a place where there was no opportunity for a significant outlet of corruption, would there be more compassion in individuals?

Squid Game has shown that the best television shows can come from your own imagination. Realistic ideas and situations can create the best of plots within a show. Having relatable content and a story that the audience can empathize with is crucial. 

Squid Game’s director Hwang has taken relevant societal issues that many can relate to and has added a twist that has sparked an iconic binge-worthy series.

Here’s to season 2!

Gentrification
bronx October 27, 2021
32Views 0Comments

Think again, 10 signs of gentrification heading your way

Signs of gentrification by definition is targeting the idea around community vulnerability.

Gentrification is an overlooked subject with some individuals who see its aspects in a positive or negative spotlight. Its impact continues to obtain underlying factors that are seen as harmless upgrades but hurt low-income families or small business owners. 

One day your neighborhood could have three bodegas on every block near you then turn into two Starbucks cafes and a Target replacing those bodegas.

Here are 10 signs to look out for in a gentrifying neighborhood.

1. Local restaurants turn into franchises

The heart and soul of neighborhoods is the diverse culture that gets communities feeling like they are at home together. When that local Columbian restaurant that has been on the corner of the block for decades becomes a Chipotle it is destruction to the community. 

gentrification sign
Kaaha Kaahiye was seen at an anti-gentrification protest on behalf of Marla’s Caribbean Cuisine. VIA Cody Nelson | MPR News

Taking away inclusion, corporate companies take this chance of vulnerability that strips away culture in creating something that they know for a fact sells. 

2. An increase in police activity is a sign of gentrification

gentrification police activity
Photo by Jason Dent on Unsplash

The idea of creating a “safer neighborhood” by using police activity is a big sign of gentrification. This is based on the key three factors of race, class, and property value. 

As property value goes up, the increase in wealth within neighborhoods creates the need to place more police force. Over-policing and low-level arrests would increase because the poor idea of reinvesting in neighborhoods is implanted. 

Components range from an increase of 311 calls to social control which also comes with the increase of police activity in an urban renewal environment. These aspects also consider race, targeting low-income neighborhoods which affect individuals in arrest rates and street stops. 

Next thing a neighborhood watch group is enforced and individuals are to attend.

3. Are Flea Markets the wave?

Flea markets can be seen in a positive or negative aspect. Some argue about the takeaways of small businesses within the neighborhood while some say that it is an improving touch to a local neighborhood.

As neighborhoods advance, flea markets enter in creating more weekend activities and economic increases to keep up with gentrification. 

4. Beware of Citi Bikes

One of the most commonly known signs of gentrification, Citi Bikes are seen to “fit” the standards of a gentrifying neighborhood. With neighborhoods that lack bike infrastructure, these demands are solely from wealthy real estate developers.

Some argue that most residents within minority neighborhoods do not own cars, that placing city bikes in input is a great way of transportation for residents, however, its plan is not well thought out. 

To place these bikes suggests that neighborhoods are fully equipped with key factors such as bike routes and a well-rounded plan which is not the case. These neighborhoods are fighting to restore their neighborhood infrastructure, and having these bikes is the least of their priorities. 

5. Poor schools get worse

Gentrification leaves poor schools behind and the case is often due to urban inequality. 

Poor schools lose more and more students because higher-income families have a choice in placing their children in private or “better schools.” This leaves poor schools to worsen for those who do not have the opportunity in receiving superior education and it is due to the result of past and current racial segregation.

Lack of school diversity is a huge factor in why all schools are not the same. This is from the type of education that is taught to the statistics in district test scores, segregation has impacted communities and individuals in grasping opportunities.

To add gentrification to this issue is to take away more from the minority community. 

6. When the rent increase just know that’s a sign of gentrification

An increase in rent or housing complexes that are selling quickly is a sign that gentrification is for sure heading your way. 

These quality improvements in a district are no doubt great until they create a crisis for long-time residents who can no longer afford to live in an area that they call home.  

Within gentrification, often seen are luxury condos being built and the reduction of government affordable housing. It is no doubt important to improve the infrastructure in neighborhoods that are in need, however, the bigger impact in sustainable affordable housing is key. It implies the idea that to those who are unable to afford to live within this price range, then so be it. 

Gentrification takes away the opportunity of affordable housing to those who are in need or looking for it. 

7. Local bar? More like trendy drinking spot

gentrified bar
Photo by Jenna Day on Unsplash

The longtime local bar two blocks down transforms into one of the latest cocktail social spots. Does one miss the place, or look forward to what’s trending?

Increases in new and renovated bars are a common sign of gentrification because of higher demand within gentrified neighborhoods.

Items on the menu are at a higher price point due to the increase in demand for these trends which are designed to accommodate the wealthier part of communities and residents.

8. Street art disappearing is a telltale sign of gentrification 

street art cleaning gif
Original mural by Martin Whatson.

Street art has consistently obtained the reputation of edge and danger, however, it has been an outlet for creativeness. The idea of street art does not see fit in the ideologies and plans of gentrification. 

Neighborhoods that paint over street art display an indicator of regeneration and retaining individuals in helping to build a sign of wealth. Urbanization and gentrification have a want for a certain aesthetic that does not include street art.

9. On going street construction

Photo by Sam te Kiefte on Unsplash

A district that puts time and money into repaving potholes, or updating road signs is a sign of gentrification. One can look forward to street signs turning into traffic lights along with more traffic within the area.

 Within the plans for gentrification are large amounts of traffic flow that are expected to follow which is the reasoning for these renovations.

10. An increase in tourists

These upgrades and trendy spots that come with gentrification are followed by tourists. 

An increase in tourism is seen as an urbanizing investment. Gentrification in this context sees these upgrades as an opportunity in having more tourists visit an area where they can increase economic wealth. 

The design of these neighborhoods is strategic in economic contribution. Demographics are studied and plans are placed in attracting tourists to the neighborhood. 

Gentrification is coming and the signs point towards hurting

The talk on gentrification does more harm than good with one being that its plans are not well thought through. Families and communities are affected by upgrades that are supposed to have harmless intent. 

So the next time you see the streets filled with Citi Bikes or receive a rent increase notice it is because gentrification is coming your way!

activism October 25, 2021
39Views 0Comments

5 activists advocating against the scars left from gentrification

As gentrification continues to plague communities of color we have to wonder who are the activists advocating against gentrification?

Gentrification has always been very much a prevalent issue surrounding communities. Its impact targets communities that obtain significant cultural identities that are vulnerable.

Here are some activists and organizations that have kept communities together and have fought against the harsh impacts of gentrification in their communities.

1. Corky Lee‘s activism against gentrification lives on through photography

corky lee photographer
Lee, a Chinese American activist, and photographer born in Queens, New York City has been documenting New York City’s Asian American Community for half a century.

His photos have revealed the effects that Asians in America have dealt with through civil rights protests and racist immigration legislation.

These intimate photographs have portrayed real-life hardships within the Asian community living in America. Challenging the universal notions of photography, Lee is the definition of photographic justice. 

chinese laborers
The original photo commemorates its completion without Chinese laborers.
VIA National Archives
chinese laborers gentrification
Descendants of Chinese laborers reclaim railroad history on the 145th anniversary of the first transcontinental railroad in Promontory, Utah in this photo recreation.

The original photo commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in 1869 did not include Chinese laborers.

Visualizations of minority struggles create impacts to community organizing because it goes against ideas such as the model minority myth. His work represents communities that continue to spark conversations that are important in going against situations such as gentrification. 

chinatown gentrification
1993 photo, Lee holds an old postcard against the background of Chinatown
Image Credit: Corky Lee

His photographs reveal the severeness of gentrification, and the pain that it has left with the Asian and Asian American communities. 

Lee passed away in January of 2021 due to COVID-19, however, his work ensures not only a photo but a story that serves justice.

2. Community Movement Builders (CMB) have one goal in mind

This collective black organization aims to create sustainable economic advancements within communities. Their goal for sustainability is to produce cooperative economic systems surrounding the black community that builds shared wealth, education, culture, and more. 

CMB goes against operations that hurt communities such as xenophobia, capitalism, and classism. Their passion is to help create a world that is free of oppression ridding all harsh impacts towards communities. 

The fight for the immediate end of gentrification to create a safe path to affordable housing is one of their many exercises against gentrification. Their emphasis on improving and investing in community development that lasts is significant in achieving their goal.

3. Kai Wen Yang is securing livlihoods and supports activists against gentrification

activist against gentrification

Sociologist and professor, Kai Wen Yang has been an activist against gentrification through extensive research and background analysis.He shares his work at international conferences on topics such as systems and capitalism.

His work with displacement and immigration has been seen from advocating for workers’ rights by using organizations such as Aint I a Woman, a platform that advocates for women of color on anti-sweatshop activism.

Yang has fought for securing livelihoods and stability against gentrification within communities and through education systems. 

4. Diane Wong  uses storytelling to focus on intergenerational resistance towards gentrification

diane wong gentrification
Wong working with local residents
VIA Diane Wong Website

Wong is a Chinese American who was born and raised in Flushing, Queens, New York City is an Assistant Professor at Rutger University.

Her specialty is in political science that is specifically tied to the Asian diaspora and the urban immigrant experience. Wong’s work is tied within the community of Manhattan’s Chinatown by focussing on intergenerational resistance towards gentrification.

She uses ethnography, participatory mapping, archival research, and works with people who have helped build the true colors of Chinatown.

The impact to her community, and to many who call Chinatown their home from home has made big differences in tying down culture. People living within Chinatown have been harshly affected through business and housing aspects due to gentrification. 

The heart and soul of Chinatown are from its people, and to strip away these cultures from gentrification is a shame. Wong’s impact strengthens and links the soul of Chinatown. Take a look at her website on her work and plans for the community.

5. Tom Angotti is an activist against gentrification through urban planning

activists against gentrification
Photo Credits William Staffeld

Angotti, also a professor, targets gentrification on the aspects of urban planning. He founded the Center for Community Planning and Development which is a platform that promotes knowledge and innovative practices in community development. 

It has formed projects that address affordable housing, and community economic development that is against gentrification. 

His website displays the different impacts and perspectives of gentrification through statistics and facts that reveal the brutal impact on communities. 

Take a look at his article about the high rent increases within real estate properties that have caused evictions and buyouts.

Real Estate Rules, Bureaucracy Obeys, Communities Rise Up
art October 7, 2021
38Views 0Comments

El Museo De Barrio to come back: Why we love the neighborhood museum

El Museo De Barrio, the name of the museum translates to the “neighborhood museum.” They are a Latin cultural institution that moves through Latin, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures.

El Museo del Barrio
VIA El Museo De Barrio

Founded in 1969, Rafael Montañez Ortíz created El Museo with his Puerto Rican parents, and community educators, and artists. It was defined as an educational institution that helped people feel proud of their heritage, to find their personal connection to Latin America. 

The exhibit holds a diverse range of collections that recognize the contributions and influence of Latin culture. They provide a variety of content that ranges from films to educational programs to visual arts and more. 

museum theatre
El Museo De Barrio’s theater for film screenings, theatrical performances, and conferences.

So why are galleries like El Museo De Barrio important?

For more than 50 years the museum has provided consistent learning spaces and environments to society. It is a crucial part of keeping people educated about Latin influence, and what better way than to learn visually. 

Not only does El Museo keep visitors in contact with the heritage, but they keep in touch with communities and artists that create the influence of Latin culture. They emphasize the importance of a strong community because of its impact from storytelling, passed down traditions, and keeping memories alive. 

Originality is key

El Museo’s work has come a long way from collecting archives that obtain a lineage of history that is used to educate the public. They are committed to keeping this ongoing collection because these existing references are crucial in maintaining tradition. Originality is key to the community that cannot be strayed away from. 

Within New York City, El Museo De Barrio is one of the few Spanish-owned galleries. The rare ownership is an impact on Latin exhibits in keeping their originality. This leads to the question of why there are very few galleries that are Spanish-owned? 

latin american art
Inside of El Museo De Barrio

Having spaces that are Spanish-owned is a trail to creating more opportunities in listening to history that is from the experience of a Latin individual. 

We look forward to the neighborhood museum’s reopening in having the public learn more about Latin America through their connection with communities, artists, and people that are the definition of Latin culture.

Plan your next visit (click here).

Hispanic Heritage Month
bipoc September 30, 2021
38Views 0Comments

5 powerful podcasts in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

A good way of keeping in touch with contributions and influences from Hispanic culture is podcasts.

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to commemorate and recognize the importance of Hispanic culture. There are more than 20 Hispanic countries in the world with a large melting pot of diverse cultures.

Hispanic Heritage Month 2021
VIA Hispanic Heritage Month Site

Here are five podcasts that hit the soul.

1. Level Up Latina (LUL)

This podcast provides readers with both Hispanic culture and the feel of female empowerment. Three Latina’s, Cecilia, Irene, and Veronica were friends and now creators wanted a place to share the ups and downs of being a working woman, mother, and a person of color.

This want for a community feel has led to the creation of this podcast that shares empowering messages through a unique cultural feminist perspective.

hispanic podcast
VIA Level Up Latina

The podcast has in a sense become a role model for those who may feel discouraged that may find the topics that are spoken about relatable to their everyday life.

It has created an impact where these women were able to redefine their struggles into strengths that formed inspirational stories and advice to their listeners. Level Up Latina has been a constant reminder to keep in touch with rooted culture through tough times. 

2. Barrio Chef

The definition of a Barrio Chef is somebody who gives it their all when creating dishes. Mike Gonzalez, a journalist and food blogger who is the creator of the Hispanic Food Network provides his audience with a Hispanic food podcast.

Barrio Chef provides listeners with Hispanic food recommendations that reveal heritage, and culture.

CUBAN FOODS bakery
Gonzalez’s restaurant recommendation, Cuban Foods Bakery & Restaurant in Phoenix, Arizona.

It can provide content that can be seen as relatable to listeners, reminding people of the uniqueness of Hispanic culture. From restaurant recommendations to coquito recipes, Barrio Chef is an enjoyable way to keep in touch with Hispanic culture.

3. LatinX On The Rise

Bringing light to activists and uncovering stories that are one of a kind, Latinx On The Rise devotes their platform for the greater good. Founder Annabel Garcia is devoted to strengthening the community by interviewing activists and revealing stories from a perspective that people may not have seen before.

Covering stories from people who are not only Hispanic but also bringing light to those who are Afro-Latino or biracial and what they experience. Its inspiration leaves its audience thinking about issues within the community and the want for change. 

Take a listen to the episode, “When The Child Becomes The Parent | Update On Family Separation” to hear about Garcia’s input on issues regarding U.S immigration policies and Trump’s 10 point raise within the Latino community in 2020 in comparison to the 2016 election.

4. Alt Latino 

If you are looking for a podcast that reveals the heart of Hispanic culture and experience, Alt Latino is the one! Alt Latino reveals how everyday forms of Hispanic culture such as music can help express the experiences of a Hispanic individual.

Their episode called “Activist Musicians Take on Trump Policies” reveals how people have taken a powerful tool such as music to use to fight for justice. Alt Latino has in a sense become this platform for other platforms within Hispanic culture.

They have placed spotlights on impacts from the community and individuals, reminding listeners of the past and ongoing cultural achievements by connecting them to everyday things.

5. Latinos Out Loud

Latinos Out Loud carries two words, charisma and character. Laughter is one of the many factors that bring communities together and provide cohesiveness. Their podcast makes one feel at home through the use of comedic ideas and lingo. It intends to move and encourage individuals within the community.

“LOL is here to move Latinos forward while making every Juan laugh!”

Via Latinos Out Loud

Three comedians, Rachel “La Loca” Strauss-Muniz, Jaime “Jfernz” Fernandez, and Frank Nibbs have come together to create a positive and enjoyable place for their listeners.

This place provides a comforting feel for all those within or who’d like to get an insight into Hispanic culture. They have taken their motive to create an enjoyable, and realistic listen for their audience. 

We love these hard-hitting Hispanic podcasts

These podcasts have the ability to keep people in touch with Hispanic culture, experiences, and heritage.

Hearing about activists fighting for the community, or things that create the Hispanic culture to be special can be seen through some of the many podcasts that are out there.

blacks mental health September 28, 2021
28Views 0Comments

Influencers and suicide prevention awareness: How to use your powers for good

Having social media is an advantage because it allows influencers to connect to their audience by spreading awareness for causes such as suicide prevention.

September is dedicated to Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month which emphasizes the importance of the cause. Creatives and artists such as Timothy Goodman, Sound of Saving, and doctor Inger E. Burnett-Zeigler have contributed to suicide prevention through diverse methods. 

So what exactly is suicide prevention awareness month?

It emphasizes the ability to inform, provide support to individuals, and recognize the signs of suicide. The month is dedicated to promoting its importance in awareness to saving lives. By uniting survivors and communities and fusing the spread of awareness, these can be cultivated in different ways and formats. 

Influencers like Timothy Goodman use their powers to bring awarness to suicide prevention and more…

Goodman is an artist, muralist, and author based in New York City who expresses his impact through his craftsmanship.

His style of artwork contains phrases that are morphed into mushy shapes that influence positivity and encouragement in day-to-day struggles. His impact on his audience is aimed towards those who are feeling content, grumpy, upset, or anything one may feel. 

influencers suicide prevention
VIA Timothy Goodman

He has not only created an art piece but has modified art, sprinkling it into one’s daily lifestyle through his passion. From art exhibitions and street art, his impact is undeniably seen almost anywhere.

Goodman has done so by placing these phrases and quotes onto t-shirts and bags where people can take a read as they walk by. The artwork obtains a direct meaning, however, its power sets off deeper positivity from within.

“You have to train your brain as your body. You can’t forget that.”

VIA Timothy Goodman

Sounds of Saving builds a new kind of human connection

Sounds of Saving, a nonprofit organization aims to reduce suicide rates by taking one of the most known and used tools, music, and using it to guide individuals to hope and optimism. Their impact is inexplicably a unique technique that is heartwarming and touching to every individual. 

This is done so by providing playlists and music that are proven to boost mental health.

The right song can move people out of dark places or further encourage individuals to positivity. Several artists within the organization have been in a similar place where they needed music as a safe space.

This simply shows the immense power of art, whether that is through paintings or music, its ability to move people is key. 

Madison McFerrin uses Radiohead’s song, “Everything In Its Right Place” to relieve stress and uplift her mental health.

“We fuel hope both by celebrating the power of human connection to music, and by directing people towards the resources they need before it’s too late – because suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.”

VIA Sounds of Saving

The organization has developed a setting to show that people are not alone but supported through sound.

Author Dr. Burnett-Zeigler uses her pen to give us insight into Blacks and mental health

“A November 2019 Pediatrics study found the rate of suicide attempts for black youths shot up an alarming 73 percent from 1991 to 2017, while suicide attempts decreased 7.5 percent for white adolescents.” 

VIA New York Times

The mental health of young Black individuals has been a concern throughout the years. Studies and research have shown that suicide rates have been skyrocketing within a five to seven-year time period.

Dr. Burnett-Zeigler, a clinical psychologist states that there is a common history of neglect and abandonment during the childhood stage in her work and experience with black women. These are a couple out of the numerous factors to take into consideration when it comes to the topic of suicide. 

Society’s harsh impact

Oftentimes black people, especially young black people are working in a society that is constantly working against them. The societal racial impact is strong and tiring to deal with. 

This calls for a revaluation of mental health awareness for black individuals. To question why this percentage is on the rise, especially for black people. 

Self-care is not selfish

Self-care
Photo By @lauraheartlines From Instagram

Recognizing daily habits and unhealthy mental health traits are crucial for suicide prevention awareness month and all year long. Suicide prevention is not simply a black and white situation but is taking careful consideration to what creates these risk factors which is then a start to a solution.

Beyond bringing awareness to suicide prevention, influencers like Goodman’s and collectives like Sounds of Saving have individually impacted society in one’s day-to-day life.

They have incorporated everyday ways that can uplift people. Whether they walk past a mural on a street or bopping to a feel-good song, it is exceptionally necessary for a positive impact. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-273-8255.

bella hadid September 21, 2021
34Views 0Comments

Are wellness drinks worth the hype? You might be shocked

Kin’s Euphorics, a wellness drink brand founded in 2017 is a gamechanger to everyday social life. The brand has created two kinds of beverages that were made to imitate the effects of an alcoholic beverage.

VIA Kin Euphoric

Founders, Jen Batchelor, and Bella Hadid have turned an experiment into a business opportunity, providing consumers with a healthier and more attainable lifestyle. 

The idea and execution

The brand currently advertises two beverages, one being called Kin Spritz, while the other one is called Lightwave. Both have completely different effects and are tailored to what consumers are looking for.

Kin Spritz claims to provide the idea of social energy with mood-boosting ingredients that spark that letting-go energy, while Lightwave targets an audience who is looking for an inner peace feel and relaxing nature.

“Kin was born as an experiment. Made to transform the world’s oldest social ritual, drinking, into a conscious act of better being.”

VIA Kin Euphoric

Both founders assure that Kin’s is tailored for every type of individual. This is from those who are sober, or those with a busy work schedule, the brand says that it is a must-try!

However, the argument is whether they are necessary for an individual to incorporate it into their daily life. As we all know there are many ways to destress or feel more lively.

One can exercise,  join a yoga class, or even socialize without the need for a beverage that provides you that alcoholic feel and buzz. 

Rethink your drink

There are a variety of wellness drinks to consider out there when choosing one. We have kombucha, probiotic drinks that promise gut health, homemade juices that contain turmeric, and whatnot.

The numerous options can provide an individual with what they’re seeking to improve on. The hunt for greater vitamin intake and health properties can definitely be beneficial, but the research must be done prior!

Immunity Boosting Wellness Drink
VIA Eating by Elaine

So are wellness drinks really worth the hype?

Though the brand seems to have good intentions for their consumers, they overlook their influence on the beverage itself.

Imitation of an alcoholic beverage is a significant matter to those who are sober. One may fall into relapse or feel the need for an actual alcoholic drink.

This is when we question whether wellness drinks are actually worth the hype? Are other tactics and activities a better choice in comparison to a beverage?

So Kin’s may not be the real deal. There are many other options and exercises that can be chosen over a spirited drink.

However, I must say I find Kin’s very interesting, and those who are intrigued by the brand should give it a try. Nevertheless, I would not say that it is a must-have for every individual.