Activist Group Reflects on 10 Years in Philadelphia, September 2024

Joshua 'Jay' Atlas, an Operation Manager for Bio-One Philly, reflects on his journey of activism over the past decade. After completing four transnational tours between 2013 and 2017, he established The Bad Activist, a nonprofit organization aimed at engaging communities in activism as a means to combat depression. Atlas experienced personal challenges during the pandemic, including job loss and the death of his great grandmother, which contributed to feelings of hopelessness and low self-esteem. In response to these challenges, Atlas emphasizes the importance of 'active activism,' which involves direct engagement with individuals rather than passive outreach methods. He believes that being present in the community and representing his ideals fosters a more meaningful connection with others. Research by Dr. Paul Arstein supports the notion that volunteering can improve mental health, suggesting that activism may serve as a viable treatment for depression. Looking ahead, Atlas and his team are preparing for a final tour set to begin on August 4, 2025, covering 6,200 miles over five months. Their primary goal is to educate youth and young adults about the prevalence of depression and encourage them to engage in activism as a therapeutic outlet. Additionally, they aim to raise funds and resources for those in need while establishing a self-sustaining community facility in Philadelphia. Through their efforts, Atlas and his team hope to create a supportive environment that fosters mental health awareness and community engagement, ultimately demonstrating the power of activism in transforming lives and addressing mental health issues.