How is it March? How is everyone doing?
As many of you know (and many of you don't), I'm (Virginia aka VBJ aka the voice of gather here) in Iowa this semester teaching at my alma mater. On Thursday, February 27, 2025 the Iowa legislature ended 18 years of protection against discrimination based on gender identity in the state's civil rights law. It was a hard day for many people (including myself). BUT my heart was full seeing over 2,500 people show up to the Iowa State House to rally for trans right and stand united in the fight for all Iowans. Some of my students skipped class to be a part of the protest and I am so proud of them. I am reminded daily that where we are and what we do and say really does matter and we can foster community wherever that happens to be - I know that the fight is not over because these young people refuse to give up. 🩵🤍🩷 To process the happenings of the last week (month...), I did what I always do. I picked up my knitting and worked a few rows. I cut into the "precious" fabric and started a quilt. And I threaded a needle and started stitching another embroidery piece for one of my students. These acts of making, well, they helped regulate some of those big feelings. Sure, I cried on my knitting. But I also tuned out the world and eventually the tears stopped and I was able to rest.
Friends, our fundamental freedoms are under attack every single day. And we ALL need to focus on one or two (maybe three) things that we can throw our energy into - get involved in our communities, join grassroot movements, find volunteer opportunities. Support organizations that have been doing the work and will continue to do so. Like our March We Care Wednesday recipient, the National Women's Law Center. 5% of Wednesday's sales throughout the month will benefit this organization. "Since 1972, NWLC has given a voice to women’s rage—turning hurried whispers into desperate shouts, and finally, into a rallying cry for justice and change." |
