Original "Freedom Writers" Continue to Inspire

The story of the "Freedom Writers" continues to inspire students.

Overcoming a life of drugs and gangs, and coming out on top, earning college degrees, after suffering a life of violence and abuse.

These are the stories two original "Freedom Writers" shared at the Woodrow Wilson Middle School's 7th annual Community Night.

"I ran with gangs, I have experience with alcohol, child abuse," said Melvin Logan, one of the original Freedom Writers from Long Beach, CA. "What the kids need to know is that they're not alone, and they have a voice. No matter what adversities or road blocks they might find in life, it can be overcome," Logan said.

"Hopefully those students who are really on the edge and could go either way from day to day hear this message, and say, 'Yeah, I'm going to get on board and make the right choices, and do the right thing,' " said Donald Orlando, principal of Wilson Middle School.

The Freedom Writers also emphasized the importance for educators to get to know, and believe in their students - because sometimes, that's what it takes for students to believe in themselves.

"If you haven't made an effort to know them, you will be clueless teaching in your own class. So it's very important to know where those kids come from, and let the kids know where they come from," said Tiffony Jacobs, another one of the original Freedom Writers from Long Beach, CA. "That way, they can build bridges," she said.

It's a message that resonates with students in the audience.

"A lot of kids could really relate to the things they were saying and telling us about," said Gabrielle Aldridge, an 8th grade student at Wilson Middle. "They know that not everybody has the perfect life, and some can't go home with a smile on their face. Kids really need to work past what's happening. We really need to fight against this, stand up for ourselves," Aldridge said.

Both of the speakers were considered to "unteachable" in high school. But in 1997, their teacher, Erin Gruwell, believed in them, and refused to

The story inspired Wilson English teacher, Mary Alice Ditullio, who orchestrated the Freedom Writers' visit to Erie.

"I have many students where I'm already aware they're facing obstacles, similar to what these (Freedom Writers) students have," Ditullio said.

"I'm hoping that they will be influenced to work harder in school, avoid violence and bullying, and try to make their lives more positive," she said.

Students are hearing the message, that one way to reach the positivity is through learning.

"Our education can take us farther in life and help pursue our dreams," Aldridge said.

The diary of Erin Gruwell, the teacher who turned around Melvin, Tiffony, and many other students lives, also inspired the 2007 movie featuring Hillary Swank, titled "Freedom Writers."

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