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Images, conditions of neighborhoods  become tools in advocacy to action event

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 16, 2017) – Students participating in the PAL Coalition are sponsoring an evening of advocacy and empowerment with “My Normal: Do You See What I See,” 6-8 p.m., Friday, May 19, at Lynnhurst United Church of Christ, 4401 Taylor Blvd., in south central Louisville.

For the PhotoVoice project, in partnership with Darryl Turpin, a co-principal of The Pinwheel Group, which works with young black males involved in the criminal justice system, students explored the five blocks surrounding their homes, photographing things they consider issues. For example, one student took pictures of trash on the street, another took photos comparing the price of beer vs. the price of water at a local convenient store – the water was more expensive.

In preparing the program, students noted themes – trash, liquor, substance abuse, violence, conditions of sidewalks or the lack thereof, conditions of roadways, including potholes and other problems. These photos and themes will be represented in posters to create an advocacy-based art show – informing and encouraging people to take note and to seek improvements.

“The goal is to raise people’s awareness of the communities where they live, the conditions and situations, and to advocate for improvements,” said Tomy Molloy, director of the PAL Coalition for Family & Children’s Place.

People who attend the interactive PhotoVoice event also will have the chance to take part in a poll, using their phones to text their answers, which will show live on multimedia screens reflecting what they see as major issues in the neighborhood.

Finger foods will be available, 11 PhotoVoice projects, digital storytelling, and a youth panel are planned for, “My Normal: Do You See What I See.”

Event

“My Normal: Do You See What I See?”
Interactive PhotoVoice Event
6-8 p.m., Friday, May 19
Lynnhurst United Church of Christ, 4401 Taylor Blvd., Louisville, Ky. 40215

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The PAL Coalition works with communities, private nonprofit agencies and federal, state and local governments to reduce substance abuse by young people living in the 7th Street corridor – Park Hill, Algonquin and Old Louisville – of Central Louisville. It is housed and partnered with Family & Children’s Place.