Movie Still Courtesy of Julian Lucas
*Unsettling Change* ©2019

My goal with this piece was to depict the rich culture found in Pomona and emphasize the importance of supporting our youth. It connects to the cultural and diverse mission of The Pomonan, expressed through the phrase “Bearing the fruit of the future.” This references the meaning behind the name Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and fruit trees, while also reflecting the city’s own history of fertile lands.

I wanted to use this play on words and history to highlight how it mirrors the people who live here. I chose to draw Pomona holding an orange, a nod to the city’s citrus orchards of the 1890s. The frames surrounding her represent the diversity within Pomona, the Indigenous people of this land, the Gabrielino Tongva Nation, as well as the many people of color who call this city home. The large Hispanic, Black, and Asian communities are also represented, reflecting my support and belief in a better future.

Pomona has long been a place of growth. Once, it was known for its fertile lands and agriculture. Now, it can be a place where people continue to grow and strive for their dreams. With support for education, the younger generations will one day reap the fruits of their efforts and represent their city with pride.

Students in Pomona High School's AP Economics and Government class have exhibited their understanding of real-world issues by writing insightful op-eds, photo essays, and film shorts for The Pomonan. Combining critical analysis with a touch of journalism, these submissions explore topics at the intersection of economics and government while fostering meaningful engagement with their community. Encouraged by their teacher Mr. Hangan to think deeply and articulate their perspectives, these young writers have demonstrated creativity, civic awareness, and a growing appreciation for the power of the written word in shaping public discourse.