By Lizzy Tsuang
Circulation Editor
Out with the O, in with the student activism.
Measure O was the initiative for Hermosa Beach oil drilling that was defeated on March 3. Before the measure was declined, Costa students such as sophomore Jane Fishman and junior Ally Lyons worked with Stop Hermosa Beach Oil, which contributed to the decision that had the potential to impact the entire South Bay.
“Our victory was entirely a community effort,” SHBO member Kevin Sousa said. “Students, chief executive officers, mothers, artists and dreamers alike stood up to Measure O and chose to protect our little funky beach town. I could not be more proud of our community today.”
Fishman became involved with SHBO, an anti-oil group of Hermosa residents, early on in the campaign by working on the SHBO telephone lines where she called local neighbors and educated them on the project.
“When I called the residents, it made them realize how much they love their town and how important it is to them to keep it local and small,” Fishman said. “This just reinforced the small town vibe everyone loves about Hermosa. I think it’s important for people to be involved in things they care about. If it matters to you, then step up and make a difference.”
Lyons had a different approach to campaigning through SHBO. She took to the streets and canvassed door-to-door in Hermosa’s residential areas. While canvassing, Lyons spread awareness of potential dangerous effects of drilling and encouraged residents to participate in the vote.
“I never realized how much this could affect us just as kids in the community,” Lyons said. “I gained a lot of respect for everyone who was involved. I now know I can be more involved even if I can’t vote. It’s important to be aware of your community because it affects everyone.”
According to Heal the Bay member and Keep Hermosa Hermosa activist Jose Bacallao, students were involved with many of the “No on O” events, ranging from forums to rallies.
“It was great seeing the younger members become involved within our community,” Bacallao said. “The youth worked hard, and they were effective in our campaigns. They made a huge difference. The anti-oil movement has energized a new group of leaders in the community.”
Costa science teacher Teresa Nielsen believes student activism impacts their involvement in the classroom. To encourage students to become involved, she offered extra credit to students who attended oil-related events.
“After my students got more exposure to the oil drilling project, they learned more about the project specifics and their community,” Nielsen said. “It’s especially important for students to be aware because this is the future of their generation.”
Although the oil campaign is over for SHBO, the organization will continue to spread its “Keep Hermosa Hermosa” message, according to Sousa. SHBO members hope to create a nonprofit dedicated to maintaining the local, small town essence of Hermosa Beach through a variety of projects in the future.
“Keep Hermosa Hermosa’s goal for the future is to keep the history of Hermosa alive,” Sousa said. “We hope to continue working toward maintaining our environment and keeping respect for our community through small beautifying projects. It’s been wonderful to be a part of SHBO, and I look forward to seeing what Keep Hermosa Hermosa will accomplish in the future.”
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