Author: Lou Balikos

Lou Balikos is a writer, editor, and organizer based in Philadelphia. Originally from South Florida, Lou is interested in journalism that centers community activism, art initiatives, and equitable futures. As the Editorial Manager, they are providing editorial guidance on news and magazine stories, ensuring each piece resonates deeply with its audience. Additionally, Lou excels in crafting compelling digital narratives tailored for social platforms, further elevating the presence of Love Now Media and Love Now Magazine in the digital sphere.

Grammy Winner Karen Slack Brings the Love and Legacies of ‘African Queens’ to the Operatic Stage

As opera continues to navigate these transformative times, artists like Karen Slack are at the forefront.

Community Stakeholders and PA State Reps Drive Change to Ensure Safety for Black Mothers

In 2019, when Cleopatra Robinson lost her best friend, LaShana ‘Shana’ Gilmore, she never imagined that six years later, she’d lead a fast-growing non-profit foundation while preparing to open her first home for pregnant women.

3 Philly Organizers Building ‘Community Refuge’ During Trump’s Second Term

Love Now Media spoke with Christopher R. Rogers of Abolition School, Van Sam of VietUnity, and Keyssh Datts of Decolonize Philly about their ongoing work fighting for community and liberation.

It Starts with Us: Bringing Financial Literacy and Other Reentry Resources to the Community

For our city to see a change in recidivism, I believe it starts with those who have changed their ways and are using their time to pour into the community.

How to Start Making Change With Those You’d Rather Cancel

Loretta Ross shares her ideas on how to engage in “calling in,” instead of “calling out,” within social justice movements.

Poet’s Press: Remember Me Today

“Remember Me Today” is a poem written by poet and performer Chioma Sheri.

Legacy & Love explores generational impact for Black History Month

Titled “Legacy & Love,” this new series runs in tune with the month’s theme—African Americans and Labor—and highlights four different businesses and celebrates the impact of their generational run.

How To: Heal Our Relationship to Intimacy

The painful, beautiful reality of intimacy is that it requires closeness with another being, achieved through mutual vulnerability. We share the ability to deeply wound each other and trust that we will not. Tim Kreider, essayist and cartoonist, sums it up best: “If we want the rewards of being loved, we have to submit to the mortifying ordeal of being known.”

Kuan Young Wants You to Incorporate Nature into Your Healing

Early on, Young noticed a disconnect between healing practices and feeling healed. He noticed individuals who were doing yoga every day but not feeling any better; to this, he maintains that “maybe [they] haven’t put the right things in [their] body,” or maybe their wellness journey should incorporate the novelty of nature.

Love, Remembrance, and Community with the Cast and Creative Team of Fallawayinto: Corridors of Rememory

At a time when the rights of trans-Americans are endangered, Fallawayinto is an urgent and powerful revelation for existence throughout generations. It is unapologetic love in its purest form, and its narrative offers a raw, heartfelt portrayal that challenges mainstream representations.