Building Bridges

“Not in our school”

Homies Unidos in conjunction with Unity-One conducts youth leadership training in schools and institutions to diffuse racial and gang tensions before they lead to violence.

In May 2005, media-fueled rumors abounded that racial tensions would explode on middle and high school campuses during the upcoming Cinco de Mayo holiday.  At the Los Angeles Technology Center, Homies Unidos and Unity One were successful in bringing an end to racial tensions between black and brown students. Homies Unidos, partnering with Unity One, was invited to the campus and held a discussion about race relations to a group of 85 students.  As a result of the discussion the group chanted in unison “NOT IN OUR SCHOOL”.  Black and brown students shook hands and gave each other hugs as a way of creating peace.  The process was successful due to the leadership training the participants received towards reducing racially motivated tension.  Our continued partnership with the school over the past four years has lead to reduced gang activity, referrals to our tattoo removal program, and has encouraged youth to remain active in their education.

For more information please contact Alex Sanchez at asanchez@homiesunidos.org or call 213-383-7484