In a deeply unsettling revelation, a woman who experienced sexual assault during her school years has come forward with alarming accusations against the founder of a prominent “social emotional learning” (SEL) non-profit organization. The allegations raise serious questions about the organization’s practices and the potential conflict between its professed goals and its actual actions.
Jennifer Freed, the founder of AHA! Santa Barbara, a well-known SEL non-profit, has been accused by a woman using the pseudonym Maria to protect her identity as a minor at the time of the incident. Maria alleges that Freed pressured her to drop charges against a teacher who had sexually assaulted her, citing concerns about contributing to the “over-incarceration” of black men.
AHA! Santa Barbara focuses on conducting talk circles with high school students, intending to create healthier campus environments and diminish emotional and physical violence. However, Maria’s account raises serious doubts about the integrity and true intentions of these efforts.
Freed, who is a psychologist, astrologist, and sex educator, is said to have approached Maria after her assault by a teacher named Matef Harmachis. Harmachis was later convicted of battery. According to Maria, Freed discouraged her from pursuing charges against Harmachis, proposing a “restorative approach” instead of involving the authorities. Maria found this suggestion deeply distressing, especially coming from a licensed psychologist.
This incident has shone a spotlight on the discrepancies between AHA! Santa Barbara’s purported mission and its actions. While the organization is celebrated for its work in advancing SEL, the allegations brought forth by Maria cast a shadow on its credibility and the ethical framework underpinning its operations.
Freed’s denial of any involvement in the case contradicts her own statements, as evidenced by her reference to video testimonials from Maria about the positive impact of AHA! Santa Barbara. This contradiction calls into question the truthfulness of Freed’s statements and underscores the need for a thorough examination of her role in the matter.
Furthermore, Maria’s account hints at potential ulterior motives for Freed’s behavior. Harmachis’s wife, Diane Fujino, is associated with a group that financially supports AHA! Santa Barbara’s SEL programs. This connection raises concerns about potential biases and conflicts of interest that may have influenced Freed’s actions.
Maria’s story also highlights disturbing aspects of the talk circles conducted by Freed. She alleges that Freed encouraged students to engage in more sexually active behaviors, pushing discussions about sensitive topics such as masturbation and lesbian experiences. This approach, which disregards personal boundaries and individual comfort levels, raises questions about the appropriateness of Freed’s leadership within SEL programs.
The allegations against Freed and the subsequent scrutiny shed light on the broader issue of the ethical and moral responsibilities associated with SEL programs. As these programs gain prominence and recognition for their potential impact on students’ emotional well-being, it becomes imperative to ensure that their practices align with their professed goals. Maria’s bravery in sharing her experience underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of students and serves as a reminder that ethical practices and accountability must prevail in the realm of education.