Pepper Sprayed In Youth Jail
It’s rare for guards to use pepper spray to control youth held inside most juvenile halls across the country. Youth Radio investigates practices in juvenile hall in Alameda County, California.
Joi Smith
Unforeseen Changes In My Community
In my neighborhood, it’s easier to buy tobacco and alcohol than a pencil.
Do Teens Care About the Oscars?
The Oscars have never been a big deal to me. The few times I’ve caught the show on TV, it seems like a small group of people celebrating themselves. Of course, they’re famous, wealthy, and mostly white. As a teenager and a person of color, it’s never felt relevant.
My Fear Of Always Being Watched By Police
I hear my heart beating as if I have earphones plugged into my pulse. My body tenses up, and you’d…
In Oakland, The Disconnect Between Youth And Police
Oakland has a long history of tensions between police and the community. So much, in fact, that the Oakland Police Department is under federal oversight for its use of force, and its reporting of misconduct, among other problems.
Feeling Unprotected By School Security
My mom always told my sister and me to never let anyone search or question us without her knowing or…
School District Polices School Cops
The academic year came to a close last week for Oakland public schools. When classes begin in the fall, the district will have new policies limiting police activity in schools. Youth Radio’s Joi Smith commentator applauds the change.
What Happened To “A” For Effort?
It’s not easy receiving a bad grade when you know you tried. Most of my peers didn’t know the answers…
Oakland Rejects Youth Curfew
Oakland recently denied a youth curfew for the third time. Oakland City Councilmember Noel Gallo’s proposal suggested that kids not be allowed on the streets between 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. everyday and 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on school days.