Domestic Violence

An editorial.

By Susan Cho
Grade: Senior
School: Grover Cleveland Senior High

Reflection Questions:  
1. What new and/or additional information did you learn during your city search? 
2. As a student and resident of Los Angeles, what can you do to be involved? 

Usually we don’t think of teenagers when we think about domestic violence. However, teens do get into abusive relationships where their partner uses deception, fear, and intimidation to gain power over them. “Break the Cycle” is an organization that focuses exclusively on this issue; it’s run for teens, by teens, who are there for support and guidance. This organization is always open to volunteers and schools who are willing to go. 
 
Awareness is the key to showing that this type of behavior is not normal and completely unacceptable, and to show that help is available. There are many things we can do to help: be supportive of our friends and fellow students, start clubs, and contact the appropriate services when we think someone may be in danger. 

To be involved in the general Los Angeles community we can volunteer, write to our representatives on issues we believe need to be addressed, and be knowledgeable about the city’s programs, problems, and improvements. 

 
Every year, over 100 students from throughout the Los Angeles Metro area participate in CRF’s Youth Internship Program (YIP). The program places local high school students as paid interns in law firms, businesses, government offices, and non-profit organizations. Throughout the seven-week program, interns participate in a series of educational seminars. They explore Los Angeles and discuss issues that affect them as youth and community members. During these seminars, we use questions to help YIP participants reflect on their experiences as interns and share their opinions.

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