The movie Freedom Writers is filled with memorable characters based on the students of Room 203. For many viewers, the standout character is Eva Benitez, the Latina student whose loyalty is put to the test when called to testify in a murder trial. In today's episode, Erin Gruwell brings you her conversation with the woman behind the amazing portrayal of that character, the talented actress-turned-activist, April Hernandez-Castillo. Erin and April discuss the making of Freedom Writers, and dive even deeper about empowering women and helping people to heal from wounds of depression and abuse. April then takes us into her personal story about escaping teen dating violence, using her voice to find healing and purpose, and working diligently to serve others with similar struggles.

Links and Resources:

Questions, stories, reviews? Contact us:

Your Voice, Your Choice website: http://www.voiceischoice.com/#about

April Hernandez's CoolSpeak Profile: https://www.coolspeak.net/motivational-speakers/april-hernandez-castillo/

April Hernadez's Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/aprillhernandez/

Time's Up: https://www.timesupnow.com/

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 http://www.thehotline.org/

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

National Teen Dating Abuse Hotline: 1-886-331-9474 / http://www.loveisrespect.org/

Buy Signed Copies of Freedom Writers Books

www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/shop