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Atlanta Teens Speak Up about Healthy Relationships & Dating Violence

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Here are some insightful original pieces from Atlanta-area teens who attended the Partnership Against Domestic Violence Teen Summit in 2016 and wanted to speak up about healthy relationships and dating violence.

Mya  Lowery, 15, Lakeside High

I wish my teen peers knew that it’s okay to be by yourself at times. The media and everyone makes you feel odd or not as beautiful if you don’t have a significant other. But through personal experiences I’ve learned that it takes courage to be and stand alone. And when the time is right, the one will find you. Until then, surround yourself with people that bring out the best in you — never the worst — and shine on!

 

By Tylinsha, 18, Atlanta Tech College

What I wish my parents knew about me is everything, ‘cause it’s nothing like talking to the people that you’ve been around your whole life.

 

By Giselle Lava, 17, Brookwood High School

In order to achieve respect

One needs communication. One

Also needs support and acceptance.

Not only that, listening is needed, and

You can’t forget about loyalty. Tolerance.

Tolerance cannot be lacked.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

 

By Jordan Cotton, 12, Bay Creek Middle

If you have courage, you can do anything

There are so many ways to have courage

You can stand up for yourself

Don’t try to be better than anyone else

Speak out and you will be noticed

Be who you want to be

And say to yourself, I have courage and that’s me!!

 

By Jahmelia Thompson 16, Maynard Jackson High School

I wish my teens knew how hard others have it.

 

Click here for more teens’ voices from the PADV Teen Summit. And for stories and resources about teen dating violence and healthy relationships, see our complete coverage at VOX Investigates

Bring VOX to your organization or school for teens to share their voices by connecting with our Atlanta Teen Voices program. Email Rachel for more information. 

 

 

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