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Thalia Bernal

Thalia Bernal recently graduated with a degree in rhetoric and writing, television and film, and communications from San Diego State University. She says “Writing is, in my opinion, one of the most powerful tools we have. I first fell in love with it when I used it as a coping mechanism growing up — the foster care system was my nightmare and writing was my savior.” She uses her creative energy to tell stories that leave impact and transforms what most people call unfortunate circumstances or imperfections into strength through writing.

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

12/13/2024

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

It’s about finding the tools to navigate our hurt, to heal through it all, and to learn to live with it, writes Thalia Bernal.

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

9/25/2024

LA County ILP Services Need to Extend the Age for Older Foster Youth

Extending ILP services until the age of 26 allows foster youth to explore without pressure and jump when they're ready, writes Thalia Bernal.

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

3/20/2023

Children Need Community Centers, not Detention Centers

Instead of prisons, I propose programs that won’t focus on punishment, but rather divert children onto the right path, writes Thalia Bernal.

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

11/2/2022

To the Parents We Wish We Knew

By default, I am connected to my mother, but the closest I’ve ever felt to her was in the womb, writes Thalia Bernal.

this child was not made out of love

7/20/2022

This Child Was Not Made Out of Love

Youth Voice writer Thalia Bernal considers what pregnancy can mean for foster youth who have experienced abuse.

We Need Community Spaces that Exist Beyond Pain

1/6/2022

How Therapy Can Be a Form of Healing for Foster Youth

Due to stigma around therapy, I denied myself help that could’ve made such a difference, writes Thalia Bernal.