The Freedom Writers Foundation is built up of an inspirational group of high schoolers in East Los Angeles. When they were teens they were in constant gang fights and what they called "an undeclared war zone." Then, one day, a teacher, Erin Gruwell, came along and eventually managed to break down all the assumptions people had about each others’ races and encouraged them to stay in school and go on to graduate. Now, these teens have grown up to spread the word about how important education is and the negative outcomes of bullying. I, along with over 20 other Beth Am teens, were very lucky to attend the Teen Screen at the Jewish Film Festival last month where we were shown a documentary of their story. Seeing their progression was so inspiring and eye opening! To top it all off, Erin and two of her students were there, which added to the intensity of the amazing event because we were able to talk to them one on one. One thing that the Freedom Writers reiterated was the importance of writing your story down, like Anne Frank and Zlata, so that your message will be told to all and one day inspire someone. The whole experience was shocking to think that there are people my age practically around the corner who are in fear for their lives, which makes me very thankful for the wonderful community I am surrounded with. It was a really great event and I was glad I was able to attend along with the San Diego and Beth Am Jewish communities!

Emily Curtis
Co-President, USY