Voices of Young Storytellers

The past few days in Los Angeles have been full of emotion for many of us: sadness, confusion, anger, and fear. As an organization that’s been embedded in neighborhoods throughout this city for nearly three decades, I can’t stop thinking about our students, our volunteers, and their families. There is very real danger on our streets for those that we have committed to serve. 

This is also why we exist, and why we aren’t going anywhere. We’ve dedicated our very being to lifting up the voices of people who don’t often get heard. The voices of our young people will make the world a better place. But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s an excerpt of a piece written by one of our students in our middle school program this past semester:

“I mean, I was done with it. All I could do was sit on my chair and feel how much anger was boiling up inside me after hearing all about these unjust laws signed into place by the president.. I was surprised. Not surprised about the laws, but surprised that our government would agree to the laws. I thought the government was fair and loved all its people. I guess not. 

Going to school was the hard part about that day. I was very easily irritated about everything, but I couldn’t and wouldn't express why I was feeling that way. I felt trapped. At school, I didn't feel like myself. I was still paying attention in my classes and doing what I needed to do but it felt so wrong not being able to express the way I felt about such a scary situation. I refused to even talk to people.

That day, I decided to start journaling, it helped a lot and I started to write down all the things that frustrated me. I even started to pay more attention to my grades and my well-being at home and in school. I set my goals and mind on school so I can grow up to be an educated person and fulfill my dreams. 

I dream of becoming a leader and someone who has power to help everyone in need no matter who they are. I want to be able to help those who have a disadvantage because of the new laws. I want to provide help for people who are less fortunate than myself and others and for those who need financial help and healthcare. I want to help others fulfill their dreams and hopes, and I want to protect people from their fears.” - A Young Storyteller

I find so much strength in the words of our students, and I hope you do, too. We hope you and your family stay safe during these unpredictable times.

Thanks to all of you who make our work possible. 

In community,

Jaylene Benggon Chung
Managing Director
Young Storytellers