Insights

Black people’s hair has always sparked debate. But the health threat posed by popular hair products has flown under the radar, columnist James Causey writes.

Meanwhile, local reporters are detailing the impacts of ongoing public health funding cuts in their own communities. 

Glynn Simmons and Richard Phillips were exonerated after decades in prison. Their stories reflect huge disparities in who serves time in prison for crimes they did not commit.

“This is a safe haven for ladies,” said Ms. Angie, senior resident manager of the Downtown Women’s Center, while speaking to journalists taking part in 2025 California Health Equity Fellowship last week.

“Most of our patients have anxiety,” said Dr. Eva Perusquía, who sees patients in Califorina's Salinas Valley. “Really, it’s a consequence of the fear, frustration, exploitation, social isolation, loneliness and discrimination that they’re living.”

The USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism is delighted to announce the selection of 15 talented journalists to participate in its annual California Health Equity Fellowship.