Today on June 15, 2010 we interviewed Arlene Inouye about C.A.M.S. (Coalition for Alternatives to Militarism in our Schools). We started recording the moment that we got out of the car. Arlene opened the door with this warm, welcoming smile. It was really nice to see how happy she was that we were there to film her and allow her to express her side of what she thinks about the JROTC in schools.
Arlene started to describe to us the different factors that play a role in a student's decision to sign up to join the JROTC. Some shocking facts that we learned from Arlene was that the marines and other programs use certain methods, pictures and sayings to attract people from specific ethnic groups. We also found out that they spend a lot of money on these programs, when supposedly these programs are free. The one fact that shocked us the most was that these programs don't really give options, sometimes forcefully enrolling the kids in the JROTC program and telling them that they have to join. Arlene also told us that some of these programs even have recruiters that harass the students to join. Edith was in shock when Arlene shared a story of a female student that was harassed by being followed to her classes.
Some other information that we learned from Arlene was that these programs really don't talk or shed light on the long-term outcomes of the physical, mental, and emotional impact joining the military after JROTC ultimately has on the students lives. Some of the effects on these young people's lives include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, missing Limbs, sexual abuse of the women, homelessness, and stress anxiety.
After speaking to Arlene it was nice to see that she was able to share her opinions without ever speaking badly about the teachers and recruiters that were supporting or working for the JROTC. She left us thinking about all the things that have to do with JROTC and the military that never get any attention.
Written by Jessica Cueva and Edith Romero
Become a Global Girl
