The Children You Call Monsters…

Written By: Trinity Releford

In a world where sensational headlines and dramatic news stories dominate the airwaves, it’s all too easy to forget that behind every story are real people with complex lives. This is particularly true when it comes to the portrayal of children in marginalized communities. Recent events, such as the video showing L.A. probation officers allowing groups to beat a teen in Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, highlight a systemic issue: children are often mislabeled and misunderstood.

Statistics and research paint a different picture from the one seen on the evening news. While headlines might scream about violence and chaos, the reality is that the majority of these children are not inherently violent or dangerous. They are products of their environment, often acting out as a response to trauma, neglect, and systemic failures.

Being a part of this community, I can attest that we do not start the violence. We are often reacting to a world that seems stacked against us. When the system designed to protect and rehabilitate us instead subjects us to further violence and dehumanization, it’s no wonder that some feel hopeless and angry.

The media’s portrayal of us as “monsters” only exacerbates the problem. It dehumanizes children who need support and understanding, not condemnation. This narrative strips away our humanity and reduces us to mere statistics and stereotypes.

It’s time for a change. We need to look beyond the headlines and see these children for who they are: individuals with potential, dreams, and the capacity for change. We must hold accountable those who perpetuate violence within the systems meant to protect us and demand that the media stop sensationalizing our struggles.

Let’s shift the narrative from one of blame to one of understanding and support. Only then can we begin to address the root causes of the issues facing our communities and help our children realize their full potential.