Teen Voices
Teen Voices. Published quarterly by Women Express, Inc. Subscription information: Women Express, Inc., P.O. Box 120-027, Boston, MA 02112-0027. Cost: $20.00; group discounts available. On the Web at: www.teenvoices.com.
OVERVIEW
This writing is actually a magazine review. Teen Voices is a glossy magazine written by and about teenage girls. A teen editorial board works with contributors and does much of the writing. In its own words, it "challenges media images of women and serves as a vehicle of change, improving young women’s social and economic status. Teen Voices provides an intelligent alternative to glitzy, gossipy fashion-oriented publications that too often exploit the insecurities of their young audience" (p. 2). The magazine is supported by Women Express, Inc., a multi-cultural, non-profit group of women and teens "committed to empowering teenage and young adult women" (p. 2). The magazine lists a number of corporations, foundations, and individuals who are contributors.
This issue includes articles on sexual harassment, breaking stereotypes, and runaways. Regular columns include "Racial Harmony," "Family," "Above and Beyond," and "Arts and Culture." Other features include an advice column, recommended reading, poetry, and news bits.
Teen Voices is multicultural and tuned into issues faced by urban teens. It clearly espouses liberal views on social and moral issues. It urges girls to take control of their situations and to not allow sexism or others’ images of women to control their lives. The publication includes some advertising: several non-profit organizations, music, computer/Internet services, and other publications.
In the "Family" section, one issue addresses the topic of breast cancer. Two teens contributed creative writing pieces: one section describes a teen’s experience of discovering a lump in her breast. Basic information details breast cancer, teen risks, and how to perform a breast self-examination. A resource list includes books, magazine articles, web sites, and national organizations. The topic is probably too mature for younger girls. Yet, the issue directly affects the lives of thousands of women, and it is important for older teens to begin learning about it. Educating teenage girls about breast cancer and prevention—including the self exam—could save lives.
Teen Voices has a healthy emphasis on teen girls learning who they are without the incredible pressure to live up to the media image of a beautiful woman. The inclusion of the voices of teens of color is commendable. Yet, the stands taken on moral issues will be considered unhelpful by most readers. The nature of many of the topics would lead one not to recommend the magazine for younger teens, and for older teens probably only accompanied by discussion with an adult.
Carol Harllee cCYS
