Photography Courtesy of Julian Lucas ©2021

Ever since I was little, I liked Pomona. These streets and the cut-offs between La Verne, Claremont, and Montclair were normal to me. People knew that beyond that street, it was actually “nice” or “safe.” But I liked where I lived and who I knew. As a student, it felt wrong to realize that my schools sometimes cared more about the parents than the children. I remember one of my award ceremonies where I was given a small pin for completing something incredible and then sent away. Meanwhile, I saw the parents gifted big baskets just for being there. But I had given just as much time and effort as they had. Why was I so angry when I saw these parents receive something I felt I should have? My blood seemed to boil, seeing all those parents receive the gifts I deserved as a student who made the school look better. All this took place in a cafeteria that served lunch that, at the time, wasn’t free. This school put the parents on a pedestal, but what about me? What about my friends? What about the teacher who encouraged us? Why weren’t we recognized? Our applause was cut short, and I wanted to show the administrators that they hadn’t put in the work I did.

The work we as a community do is what shapes the city. Without people, especially youth, where would the world be? To enrage us and place so much responsibility on people who have yet to experience the outside world is what many do. To not recognize our efforts leaves many youth feeling lost. The mission to educate and guide youth will lead to a future that holds the world. I see my peers every day, and I see how they perform. They make it look easy, and they strive for greatness, even those who cause trouble.

The voices of many are the people around me, the fight against those who make us feel small, and the determination to continue fighting even when we are tired. I’ve seen it in people of all ages, from every generation, someone has always fought. And now, the world belongs to the youth. Just like the world, people grow. Even if we feel like we are being set back in time, the message is to push forward. To be yourself is the mission.

The next mission will be to become an adult, but until then, I shall live in this childhood bliss.

…A letter from a teenager.

Students in Pomona High School's AP Economics and Government class have showcased their understanding of real-world issues by writing insightful op-eds for The Pomonan. Combining critical analysis with a touch of journalism, these submissions explore topics at the intersection of economics and government while fostering meaningful engagement with their community. Encouraged by their teacher to think deeply and articulate their perspectives, these young writers have demonstrated creativity, civic awareness, and a growing appreciation for the power of the written word in shaping public discourse.