Myra Estrada
SCHOOL: Oakland High School
PILLAR: School Climate and Safety
ARTIST STATEMENT
I am a Black & Mexican, female, and queer artist with an expertise in many mediums ranging from written pieces of art to visual eye-pleasers. I've always used art as an outlet to form and shape my beliefs. Through creating my art work, I intend to offer my beliefs of the world as they are neglected by mass media. My art is the embodiment of my culture, beliefs, and aspirations. I chose to focus on this pillar because I believe that creating a safe culture and climate on campus creates a healthy community. I created this piece after scrolling through social media and seeing dozens of posts written about school shootings. As a child, it's hard to feel as though you can do much of anything to solve massive problems such as this one especially when the youth voice is ignored. I found myself having an urge to do something and I chose the best way I know how; through my words. School shootings have become so prevalent within the last few years in America. I live in fear after hearing the disturbing news of a shooting happening at a school in Oakland and receiving threats of a shooter on campus at my own high school. With this poem, I urge everyone to question the systems and people we have in power. Find that urge within yourself to become an advocate and ally not only for yourself but your peers as well. I believe feeling safe within your school border is the first step to bettering the school climate.
