Richmond, CA students and families are flocking to online video sharing sites to get their views out. These videos from CNN and Youth Talks present a wide range of view, but they all reinforce how little journalists are needed to interpret--there's a strong effort for Richmond folks to speak for themselves. Here's some of the video and reporting. used by permission.

Youth Together is on the scene in Richmond, CA,

Tuesday, October 30th, Youth Together held a press conference for students, teachers, parents, community based organizations, and public officials came out to support the Richmond High School student who was the recent victim of a brutal sexual assault.  The community came together to address their sorrow, support, and love for their fellow classmate, student, and friend.  Richmond High School assured the community that they will continue to heal and build solidarity amongst the students, faculty, and parents to continue the hard work of creating a safe, positive, and loving educational environment.  Furthermore, students expressed their hurt from local and national media describing students as animals.

“We would be here if we didn’t care,” sophomore Andre Taylor expressed to the crowd.  Senior Norma Bautista expressed her disdain of the press’ coverage by stating, “There are great students here wanting to change things for the better, get that straight.”

Speakers also addressed the national issue of violence against women.  “Every nine seconds a woman is sexually assaulted in this country,” site organizer Nadeen Elshorafa told media.  Adding, “We must address this issue as a nation, it goes beyond Richmond’s borders.”

Students have organized a healing event next Tuesday at Richmond High.

To support the family, send donations to:
Richmond High Student Found
1250 23rd St., Richmond CA 94804 • (510) 237-8770


Memo: Sexual Assault Victim

The family of the victim will be setting up an account through Mechanics Bank.  We will post information as soon as possible.

Richmond High Responds to Homecoming Rape from New America Media on Vimeo.

There's aso a video--very moving--of two girls who attend Richmond High who speak about safety issues.

About Susan Mernit

Susan Mernit is the founder of Oakland Local. She is also a circuit rider for The Community Information Challenge, a program of The John S and James L Knight Foundation, and a consultant to non-profit and community organizations. Susan lives in North Oakland, near the Santa Fe school, with her partner Andy, her housemate, a big old dog named Winston, and a yard full of ants. She is an aspiring gardener, a long-time blogger & entrepreneur, and a recovering journalist.