“We all know from reading these articles and taking a look around us, that there are serious problems of racism and inequality in our society. Initiatives like Prop. 187 and the anti-affirmative action initiative are part of a broader attack on the rights of immigrants, people of color and women to get an education and have equal opportunities in getting jobs.
Things are bad, but what are we as the youth of LA going to do about it? Because if we aren’t willing to try to change things, we have no right of complain. Many of us say that we would like to get involved, but we don’t know what we can do.
Here are some ways to take action:
Agenda for Action Among Youth has lots of cool ways to get involved, like talking to other people about issues, organizing music entertainment, and encouraging people to register to vote. (213) 730-4950
Brotherhood-Sisterhood Camp is a powerful weeklong workshop aimed at breaking down the barriers of racism, sexism and other issues that divide us as young people. The camp is run by the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and is held twice every summer with additional programs that run throughout the year. (See article by Dinah Perez.) (213) 250-8787
The Clinic will train you to help other teens with health issues—like safe sex information, where to get HIV tests, self-esteem and others. (213) 295-6571
The Constitutional Rights Foundation offers internships and a Youth Task Force where you and other youth plan projects to help the community. They also have a great mock trial program. (213) 487-5590.
Korean American Youth Leadership Program is a two-month series of leadership training workshops sponsored by the Korean Youth and Community Center. (213) 365-7400
Metropolitan Alliance is a progressive citywide coalition of community organizations and individuals who are building voting power, educating the community and taking direct action on political issues. The current focus is defending affirmative action, but the group hopes to form a permanent network. (213) 730-4950
The San Fernando Valley Partnership is planning a youth conference for January. (818) 837-7767
Youth Empowerment Project has a six-month youth leadership program where you can get directly involved in the community. (213) 735-2295
Do you know of other programs where teens can get involved? Let us know at (213) 938-9194 or fax your information to (213) 938-0940.”