California's state budget is in a huge deficit. Using this as an excuse, Governor Schwarzenegger is slashing social programs. From education to healthcare to open space the poor residents of California are being asked to make up for the state's shortcomings.

Along with a ten percent education cut one of the most devastating losses will be the planned closure of 48 of California's state parks. For low income and marginalized communities across California state parks are an affordable and healthy way for families to recreate.

One of the parks slated for closure is Candlestick Point. Established as the countries first urban state park the closure of Candlestick Point would mean the elimination of a vital recreation area for thousands of Hunter's Point residents. Home to 365 federally designated toxic sites; these residents can't afford the loss of this precious green space.

One of the organizations that have been working with residents to fight environmental racism in South San Francisco is Literacy for Environmental Justice.  Since 1998 LEJ has led well-over 10,000 public school students in neighborhood improvement initiatives, as well as having hosted workshops and conferences on youth empowerment, community involvement and environmental justice nationally.

To learn more please watch the video segment:

http://think.mtv.com/044FDFFFF0098A13200170098D928/