“Freedom Writers” Day

On December 1, 2007 I attended the “Freedom Writers” Day program at Paramount Pictures studios. When I reflect upon the topic of freedom I am moved to see that not only is it an ideal that we strive for, but it is a common dream that ties us all together. Youth leaders from Middle Schools and High Schools from all over Los Angeles came to discuss how writing brings clarity to topics of violence, racism, sexism, and alienation. Some schools dealt with a variety of these themes in an extracurricular club, while others held classes devoted to these themes.

Freedom:

• (the condition of being free; the power to act or speak or think or write without externally imposed restraints)
• Liberty of the person from slavery, detention, War, or oppression.

The movie “Freedom Writers” is about a young teacher who inspires her class of at-risk students to learn tolerance, apply themselves, and pursue education beyond high school. The themes featured in the movie inspired the discussion topics throughout this event; such as applying yourself creatively towards a better education and a brighter future.

The Movie was followed up by a quick luncheon and a motivational panel discussion featuring four writers who have become teachers/mentors encouraging youth to “write their way to freedom”

• Pat Payne
• Reina Alejandra Prado
• Emily Rapp
• Kristina Wong

The panel was also accompanied by a few young actors in the movie who had come in from out of state to share their experiences.

• Gabriel Chavarria
• Jaclyn Ngan
• Deance Wyatt

Each was proud to share how they used writing and the impact it had in their own lives. All attendees were encouraged to take the time to write at least once every day which is a movement that I definitely support.

In closing we all posed for a quick picture.

Throughout the world great strides are taken towards the goal of freedom. The picture you see below is from the Freedom Charter in South Africa (which I had the pleasure of seeing on a recent multi-city tour throughout Africa.)

THIS IS THE OUTSIDE OF THE FREEDOM CHARTER TOWER

THIS IS ONE OF THE GREAT “FREEDOM SLATES” INSIDE

If you look carefully at the picture above you can see that there is writing in various sections with a central wheel. These statements talk about Freedom from a governmental perspective: what it means to be free, how to uphold personal freedoms, etc. This is basically like our Declaration of Independence. Writing has always been a key element in the quest for freedom.

The blank book, pens and empty chair below symbolize the challenge for the new generation,
which must carry on the torch that our past freedom fighters/writers have devoted their lives to and press on towards a more harmonious and peaceful future.