A new youth-led tour series that offers a chance for people to learn more about the cultural and structural history of less-explored areas of the city kicked off on Thursday with a look at the Washington neighborhood led by three young residents.

The free tours through the  My Hood, My City program lets young people from ages 14-24 tell the story of their neighborhoods.

The program, which was created last summer in collaboration between the Youth Leadership Institute and the city of Long Beach, focuses on neighborhoods that have experienced disproportionate incidents of violence, poverty and hardship from COVID-19.

The goal of the program was to create a storytelling experience that raises awareness and knowledge of these areas while also honoring their cultural makeup.

There are two more tours that you can still attend:

  • West Long Beach: Bret Harte Library (1595 W. Willow St.)
    • Saturday, Oct. 22, 3:30 to 5 p.m.
  • North Long Beach: Michelle Obama Library (5870 Atlantic Ave.)
    • Friday, Oct. 28, 4 to 6 p.m.

The tours are free to attend, though an RSVP is required. Click here to register. The length of the tours ranges from 20 to 40 minutes.