The Kids Are Not Alright.

— Published May 7, 2025, 9:57 PM —

Like the headline says, the kids are not alright.

Here in Santa Ana, we’re seeing it in real time—young Santaneros being steered down paths paved with consequences that are entirely preventable.

People ask: why? Why do we continue to accept tragedy as a way of life in this city? Why have we grown numb to the cycle?

Some say it’s gang glorification. Others point to underfunded communities, broken trust in law enforcement, or the presence of gang culture passed from one generation to the next. Some blame a lack of afterschool programs, missing resources to keep kids off the streets, or the fear that keeps residents silent when they see something wrong. Others chalk it up to loose parenting, or simply say, “It’s just how things are.”

But whatever the cause, the result is the same: shock, grief, prayers, condolences—and then the forgetting, until the next life is taken.

In 2024, Santa Ana recorded 17 homicides—eight of them gang-related.

In 2023, every one of the seven homicides was gang-related.

In 2022, 16 out of 25. That was the highest gang-related homicide rate in the last decade.

Over the last 30 years, we’ve spent billions trying to contain this violence. Still, however, what’s it to person with callous intent today?

And while the violence is the most visible symptom, there’s more happening beneath the surface. Teens today are under immense pressure—from school, sports, social media, family expectations, financial realities. They’re constantly surrounded by peers who seem to have it all figured out. That pressure morphs into stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

If they don’t have someone—be it a teacher, a counselor, a parent, an older sibling, or even a friend—to really listen to what's on their mind, they often turn to what does listen: the streets. The consequences? Sometimes, there’s no coming back.

Now, more than ever, we must unite—not just to warn kids about the world's influences, but to show up for them emotionally. Ask them what’s on their minds. Be present. Be involved. Be real.

We cannot continue to normalize this bloodshed. Far too many young lives have been buried before their time. Far too many families eat dinner with one chair permanently empty. Far too many dreams have been stolen.

Santaneros, please. For the sake of the children, for the future of this city—let’s stop looking away. Let’s stop waiting for the next headline.

Let’s start acting like the kids matter—because they do.

Written by Daniel Diaz, Santa Ana resident born and raised, three-school factor of SAUSD, and sole member of The Santanero newspaper.

Homicide data provided by the Santa Ana Police Records Division via Public Records Request.