LA Wellness Group Celebrates 5 Years of Healing, Unity Amidst Challenges

WalkGoodLA's 5th Anniversary: A Celebration of Healing and Community in Los Angeles On June 8th, 2025, Kenneth Hahn Park in Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles, was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. This wasn't just a typical park gathering; it was the fifth-anniversary celebration of WalkGoodLA, a community wellness organization that emerged from the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020. The event offered free services such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and tarot readings, reflecting WalkGoodLA's commitment to holistic well-being. "What started as a group of people stretching before protesting has become a full-blown community," said Mark Ridley-Thomas, WalkGoodLA founder. The event underscored the organization's growth and its vital role in providing a safe space for Black and brown residents of Los Angeles, particularly during times of hardship. Nechi Estrada, a MidCity Mercado representative, highlighted the importance of such events: "I think places like this and organizations like this are so important, especially during times that are happening currently. With our community struggling, it's vital for Black and brown folks to come together and unite." The event demonstrated the power of community resilience and the ability to find joy and healing in the face of adversity. The celebration was a testament to the strength of the community and the transformative power of collective action.