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Dear #Changemakers,
“At this point in time, I feel completely powerless in my state. I feel as though I don’t live in a state of democracy, but rather a state that makes decisions FOR me, regardless of my voice. As a proud Texan, I find myself constantly disappointed and let down. As a woman, I feel violated. As a Latina, I feel unrepresented. And as a voter, I feel this state has done a disservice to the democracy of the United States.” These are the words I spoke at a redistricting hearing recently, and they reflect emotions that I constantly feel living in a state where my life and experience aren’t valued by my representatives.
I wanted to be transparent about how the Texas Legislative sessions this year have left me feeling, as I grappled with the unjust laws our leaders have passed. As our choices and rights are being stripped away from us, our elected officials have continued to shut us out of the process and deflect accountability.
Yet what I feel isn’t discussed enough is the precedent Texas is setting for the rest of the country. A state where peoples’ healthcare choices are no longer theirs to make, where power is maintained through gerrymandered districting, and where people are left to die in freezing weather while companies profit from their suffering is a state where freedom seems nonexistent. A quote from Dr. Martin Luther King comes to mind as I realize these terrifying circumstances, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” I cannot sit idly and allow these injustices against women, birthing people, people of color, and low-income communities to continue, and I implore you Changemakers to do the same.
This week, as I am in D.C. speaking up for my community, I know the circumstances are difficult. Being an advocate comes with its own challenges, but there is so much power in vocalizing our personal experiences. When we do, we create a common humanity that will help us forward as we continue fighting for change.
In Solidarity,
Joslynn Sanchez, Campus Organizer
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