By Clyde Smith Santa Monica
I applaud the efforts of Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School board member Oscar de la Torre to attempt to mediate the situation at Samohi last week (SMDP, April 23-24, page 1). We, as a community, are glad someone did. I have known this young man since he was Santa Monica High School student body president and member of my son’s football team. He often expressed the goal that after attending college, he would return to his community and work to make a difference in the lives of young people. I trust both Mr. de la Torre’s judgment, words and his actions. He has earned my respect.
As a 1964 black graduate of Santa Monica High, and a frequent volunteer at the school, I recognize firsthand how difficult and complex campus life is for the black and brown students. Mr. de la Torre worked tirelessly for years at Samohi with this very population as a counselor. I do not condone the actions taken by a few students to act out their frustrations, or react to the actions of others, nor will I try to address all the factors that might lead a young mind to rebel in this way. But for my opinion, Mr. de la Torre is doing exactly what I voted for him to do on behalf of my neighborhood, and that is to represent my interests. His methods do not offend me, nor do I think them “irresponsible.” For all our years of keeping the status quo at Samohi, and after seeing and feeling real change under the previous administration at Samohi, I would rather see things shaken, not stirred, by Mr. de la Torre’s actions. Our “house was on fire,” and one good man and a concerned community is trying to stop the smoke. God bless you, Oscar.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 27, 2005. Read the original PDF.