Statement on Dolores Huerta
Contact:
Crystal Zamarron,
Digital and Communications Director,
TEXAS - Our hearts are with Dolores Huerta and with the survivors impacted. The New York Times confirmed a reality that many women and girls face. In our state, we are far more than aware of the violence that impacts Texans.
We vow to fight the injustice that young people face in our broken system. Over 90% of Texans do not report a sexual assault due to the lack of resources and empathy our judicial system has for people.
We continue to see brave people, like a prominent leader such as Dolores Huerta, speak up about their experiences. Including survivors from the Epstein Files and survivors impacted by genocide in other countries at the hands of the U.S., this creates a wave of young people urging those who keep the patriarchal system moving to a halt. We are speaking up and no longer staying silent for the benefit of the movement.
We agree with the response of elected officials to remove symbolic association with Cesar Chavez, but practical support for survivors of sexual violence must be put at the forefront. In 2019, we helped former Texas House Representative Victoria Neave tackle the Texas rape kit backlog numbers. Since then, we have reduced the number of backlogs. Survivors deserve to know that if they choose to report, the state will pursue justice.
To seek help, call this hotline: (800) 656-4673 or text HOPE to 64673
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Deeds Not Words is a youth organizing non-profit, rooted in gender justice, that galvanizes the power of young leaders across Texas to champion a just future through leadership development, advocacy, and cultural organizing. Deeds aims to build a new generation of leaders across Texas who will advance the fight for justice, equality, and opportunity for all and are fighting for a Texas that values Reproductive Justice, Fair and Just Representation, Freedom from Violence, and the Freedom to Thrive.