As a parent living in a state that's been attacked by religious extremists for years, I know firsthand what it's like to send a child to a public school where the religious texts and dogma are not only permitted but required in classrooms. This is a slap in the face to families like mine who do not worship Christianity, and even a slap in the face of families who do. Defense of Democracy has been working all summer to prepare communities around the country from inevitable attacks from religious extremists.
I will say this plainly: even if you are from New York State, your child's school is at risk. Do a quick google search to see if Moms for Liberty or one of its affiliate groups have a presence in your community. They are in the Hudson Valley, Western New York, and even New York City. Even if they aren't in your back yard, I can promise you that one day sooner or later your community will find itself in the crosshairs of religious zealotry and indoctrination.
I'm asking for your help in funding Defense of Democracy as we enter this new year. DofD is the only nonpartisan, national, nonprofit singularly focused on protecting public schools from attacks by religious zealots.
- Free workshops and trainings including- dealing with the media, filing FOIA requests, coordinating a peaceful protest.
- Support and mentoring for individuals looking to run for school board.
Talking points and 1:1 guidance on how to mobilize a community when a school or library comes under attack. - A community of people who meet regularly, brainstorm together, and mobilize not just as individual communities but together as Americans, in this assault on our freedom
On behalf of my family, my children, and my community- thank you for your donation and support.
Sincerely,
Erica Watkins, State Director of Oklahoma for Defense of Democracy
Member : Veterans Defending Democracy
Steadfast ally, staunch advocate, and proud American