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October 15, 2018 | Deeds Digest No. 120
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Hello #Changemakers!
Yesterday, I had the privilege of speaking at a luncheon to benefit the work of CASN (Clinic Access Support Network). The organization grew up a few years ago following implementation of Texas' anti-abortion law and the clinic closures it caused.
When clinics close and access is blocked, the right to an abortion becomes almost meaningless. Because the right to abortion without the ability to access one means that, for many women, the "right" doesn't actually exist at all. And in Texas, where many women have to drive over 100 miles, miss two days of work and pay for an overnight stay because of our mandatory 24 hour waiting law, access to (and therefore the right to) an abortion has been denied.
And that's why CASN was created. Responding to a plea for help accessing an abortion that came across her facebook feed, Houston resident Angie Hayes and a few friends began putting together volunteer rides to clinics for women who needed transportation. Before long, they'd organized their efforts into an organization that now supports access to contraception, counseling and abortion care (including transportation, lodging and financial support for women who cannot afford abortion care). Last year alone, CASN helped over 1500 women access the care that they needed. And the future stories of each the women they've helped will forever be shaped, thanks to the efforts of CASN, its donors and its volunteers.
Yesterday, Angie announced her departure as the long time lead of CASN's efforts so that she can provide herself with some much needed self-care, including a plan to continue her education. But she leaves the organization on sound footing with a committed board of directors who will carry on the work. Angie's example is an inspiration for all of us about the power that comes when we own the responsibility to do the next right thing and help someone in need. Take note, #Changemakers, because you are more powerful than you realize.
Much love,
-wendy
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This week, #TeamDeeds got to spend some inspirational time working with passionate #Changemakers at our new Texas Southern University Deeds’ Chapter! We shared our stories, talked about the upcoming elections, and learned ways to galvanize the power we possess as young people of color. From achieving criminal justice reform, social and economic opportunity for all, and freedom from sexual assault, WE are the generation that will make all of this happen -- one deed at a time.
We're excited for our new Deeds’ TSU chapter and can’t wait to see what these powerful #Changemakers will accomplish on their campus and in their communities.
We will vote. We will advocate. We will organize.
We are the #Changemakers.
Claudia Yoli Ferla
Director of Student Outreach and Organizing
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It’s October which means it’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Many people are touched by domestic violence, but there are so many ways you can raise your voice to support them! This month, we’re asking you to use #Survivorspeaks to spread the word on your social media networks to debunk myths about domestic violence and to pressure lawmakers to improve access to justice for survivors.
You can also volunteer at the National Sexual Assault Hotline operated by RAINN: https://volopps.rainn.org/
Or visit the United Way for volunteer opportunities to support domestic violence organizations in your area. https://www.unitedway.org/get-involved/volunteer
Don't have time to volunteer right now? Then perhaps consider donating to your local YWCA to support free counseling services for survivors in your community. Even as little at $5 can make a difference! http://bit.ly/ywca-digest
We're also still collecting donations for our fund to clear the rape kit backlog in Texas! If you'd like to make a donation to help survivors receive the justice they deserve, consider a gift today. https://www.clearthekits.org/
With your voice and efforts, you can make a difference for someone in your life! Thank you for stepping up for survivors, #Changemakers!!!
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This Week's #Changemaker:
Lynzy Lab
Lynzy Lab doesn’t buy that “it’s a very scary time for young men in America.” To prove it, she wrote “A Scary Time,” a catchy ukulele song that compares the necessary safety precautions taken by women to the so-called “burdens” imposed on men by the #MeToo movement. Lynzy shows that it’s not such a hard time for men, after all, and encourages listeners to vote on November 6.
In addition to a songwriter, Lynzy is an award-winning choreographer and dance instructor at Texas State. She’s choreographed a poignant dance inspired by the #MeToo movement–you can check it out on her Youtube channel.
Here at Deeds, we admire creators who use their art for change. And make sure you take Lynzy’s suggestion and vote this November!
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