Hosted by Dr. Chris Chanyasulkit, PhD, MPH, and Pat Maher, MS, RNP, this series is a collaborative effort sponsored by the Friends of Brookline Public Health, in partnership with the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services and Brookline Interactive Group (BIG).
Episode 7: Freedom, Food, and Fairness: Grassroots Organizing as Public Health in Brookline
What’s Happening?
In this episode, Chris sits down with Zaria Karakashian-Jones, a lifelong Brookline resident, community organizer, and non-profit and public policy professional. Recognized in April 2026 as the recipient of the Public Health Equity Award from the Friends of Brookline Public Health, Zaria serves on Brookline’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations Commission and is a driving force behind local equity initiatives.
True community health relies on structural fairness, civic engagement, and grassroots care. Chris and Zaria explore how historic and present-day systemic inequities shape the social determinants of health, connecting public health directly to racial justice. Zaria shares her inspiration behind launching Brookline’s annual Juneteenth and Pride celebrations, the evolution of the 24/7 Jennifer Coolidge Community Fridge initiative, and actionable ways every resident can strengthen community resilience.
Key Takeaways from Zaria Karakashian-Jones:
Racial Equity is Public Health: Racism is a public health crisis that shapes where people live, learn, work, and age. Historic policies and structural barriers directly dictate bodily autonomy, safety, and health outcomes today.
Juneteenth as a Health Landmark: Celebrating Juneteenth honors the end of legalized slavery, a system that strictly controlled every determinant of health, including access to safe, high-quality medical care, and living environments.
Mutual Aid Fills Critical Gaps: The Jennifer Coolidge Community Fridge provides 24/7, barrier-free access to fresh food and dry goods, complementing local food pantries to tackle food insecurity directly within the neighborhood.
Supporting Local Food Systems: Reductions in federal agricultural and food funding make supporting local farms and farmers markets vital for community nutrition, food access, and local economic resilience.
Civic Action Drives Community Health: Voting in local elections, engaging in community events, supporting local businesses, and speaking up against injustices are daily, accessible ways every resident can promote health equity.
Resources & Local Support:
Brookline for the Culture & Jennifer Coolidge Community Fridge:
Learn more about upcoming cultural celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and local mutual aid efforts.
Email: Brooklinefortheculture@gmail.com
Community Fridge Location: 7 Station Street, Brookline Village (24/7 outdoor access located across from the Brookline Village T Station)
Get Involved: Core planning for annual events begins in November/December; stipend-supported volunteer positions are available for high school youth.
Brookline Thrives: brooklinethrives.org
Brookline Food Pantry: https://brooklinefoodpantry.org/
Brookline Farmers Market: https://www.brooklinefarmersmarket.com/
Support local farms and access fresh, seasonal produce every Thursday in Coolidge Corner (see website for dates and times of operation).
CARES Brookline: free online search tool that connects people with local, free, and or reduced-cost social services and programs. By searching with your Brookline zip code, residents can find assistance with needs like housing, food, healthcare, and financial aid. The service is available 24/7 and free to all users, including translated services in over 100 languages. Info here: http://www.CARESBrookline.com
Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified professional who can consider your individual needs and circumstances. Listeners should consult a qualified professional regarding their specific situation and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you hear on this podcast. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Friends of Brookline Public Health, the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services, Brookline Interactive Group (BIG), or any affiliated institutions. Use of this content is at your own risk.