Dance Revolution in South Los Angeles

February 9, 2009 By 1 Comment


"I love to get the exercise on Friday night. I can get as sweaty as I want because I get my hair done tomorrow," said Cynthia Roberts, a banker in Gardena.

The class is designed to allow women to set healthy goals for themselves. Jackie Rice, a co-creator of J & J Soulful Steps dance classes and a nurse practitioner, begins class by discussing target heart rates depending on age and weight.

"We want African American women to be healthy. These classes are a fun way to get exercise without having to make tireless treks to the gym," said Jackie Rice.

The Minority Health sector of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that African American women have the highest rates of obesity compared to other groups. Four out of five African American women are overweight or obese according to a report released in 2007.

"I get great joy from watching people improve their lifestyle by learning healthy eating and exercise habits. You wouldn’t think that one class could do so much. But, we have had women come to our class and drop three or four dress sizes. It doesn’t just make a difference in their appearance, but in the way they live their lives," said James Rice, the co-creator of J & J Soulful Steps with his wife and a dancer for more than 30 years.

J & J Soulful Steps dances classes began in the Rice’s own home and since moved into larger locations such as the First AME Church. Classes are designed to include nine dances and periods for warm-ups and stretching.

"I joined the class because I wanted to exercise in a fun way. I came with a friend and we were laughing as we did all the different soul dances. We can also go out together as a class afterwards," said Roberts.

Participants are not only improving their health at the dance classes, they are also making friendships. Women are encouraged to come early to class and enjoy healthy snacks such as fruit and vegetables.

"I come because the classes are organized in a way that allows you to really perfect the dances. I like that there is an instructor on both ends of the dance floor that way when you turn you don’t get lost," said Zena Meeks, an aerobics instructor.

Soul line dancing began on the East Coast and since has moved out to the West Coast especially in predominately African American communities. Each week, new participants come to the church to learn how to soul line dance.

"It always great to see new faces. But, many of the people in this class have been going to the same church since childhood. A lot of us were born and raised right in Los Angeles," said Roberts.

The various levels of dance training can make teaching new dances difficult according to both Jackie and James Rice. "But, it’s all about having fun. We can all mess up even the instructor," said Jackie Rice.

J & J Soulful Steps dance classes are free to the public on Friday nights from 7-9 p.m.

Filed Under: Community

Bringing Unity

January 26, 2009 By Leave a Comment


Throughout his campaign, Obama brought a message of hope to those who had been disenfranchised by Washington politics. South Los Angeles residents joined spectators from across Southern California to celebrate Obama’s inauguration on the plaza at LA Live.

"For the first time, Americans of all ethnicities, genders, religions are able to come together and be part of America. There is a great sense of unity here on this plaza today," said Paul D. Wiley, a Young Women’s Christian Association educator.

Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry hosted the event, which featured live performances and large screens for viewing the proceedings in Washington on both CNN and ABC News. However, many people felt a more personal connection to Obama’s presidency.

"I think of the bloodshed that had to happen to get this moment. There is a lot of racial pride inside of me. I want to be part of the history that is made today," said  Derrick Allen, a temporary worker in downtown Los Angeles.

Allen and others have realized how race relations in America have changed over the course of their own lifetimes. They believe Obama’s presidency is a new frontier for African-Americans and other races in the United States.

"Obama allows people to believe in their dreams, regardless of background.I remember walking in the Civil Rights movement as a young child. Today, bridges the gap between people. I believe that today we are capable of anything," said Wiley.

Other people on the plaza believe that it is not only Obama’s race but his ability to lead the nation that makes him right for the presidency especially in these tough economic times.

"Obama’s ability to communicate is what sets him apart as a leader. It doesn’t feel like he is talking to a crowd. It feels like he is simply talking to you as an individual," said Janet Hackett, a teacher at the Santee Education Complex in South Los Angeles.

Obama was elected president in November after campaigning against Republican Sen. John McCain. Washington first took notice of Obama after he gave the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. Throughout his campaign, his speeches and rallies were known for having "rock concert" spirit.

"America is like a sports team. When together, we have the power to be great. We can move forward together, all following Obama," said Wiley.

Inside many of the restaurants in the Nokia Theater complex, the excitement about Obama’s presidency could be heard through various toasts and cheers before the lunch hour even began.

"I wanted the students I teach to experience this. They may not realize it today, but they will realize the magnitude of this event in 10 or 20 years. They need to understand that they are capable of anything even becoming the president of the United States," said Trebor Jacquez, a teacher in South Los Angeles who brought his students to the gathering.

Filed Under: Politics