Be the change you want to see in the world. (by Ghandi)
Freedom Writers represent the change we need to see in the world. I watched the documentary, “The Stories from an Undeclared War,” last night.
The picture follows the students’ stories from their freshman year to the present day. Erin Gruwell made a “ripple” in the academic waters 20 years ago, and that ripple grew to become a big wave. It was amazing to see that the students are still together after 20 years, supporting each other as family, reaching out to kids who need to be heard, and paying it forward to the community.
I’m still in the process of absorbing all of it. The film was that powerful.
Freedom Writers, you are all jewels that shine more brightly than ever.
We love your courageous and inspirational spirit!
P.S. You all did a fantastic job at Q & A. You guys made us (as Toastmasters) proud! Well done!!

Q & A and Raffles
This was indeed a powerful night. We experienced through film what Erin Gruwell witnessed every day in room 203 at Wilson High in Long Beach. Many teachers would have run away or made the decision that the anger and resentment these young adults displayed was the depth of their being. Somehow Erin saw more than that in class 203 and made it her mission that those kids saw it too. Bravo to Eriin for being the change those students needed to see in a teacher!! Hellena Jones Elbling