Social Justice

 

 I am passionate about Social Justice. 

I was honored to stand on the Pettis bridge in Selma with the Honorable John Lewis in commemoration of the sacrifice of many to make things better for us today. He is my model, as I  continue to stand for human rights, women's rights, LGBTQ rights and for the rights and opportunities of every human being to live with dignity and to fulfill their highest potential.

In the military during “don’t ask, don’t tell,” some of the finest officers and soldiers I served with were women or members of the LGBTQ community. Persons of color had difficulty being accepted in the military and were often passed over promotions. Women served in combat for decades before our nation recognized them for their combat duty. They also were passed over for promotions and often assaulted.

As a former law enforcement officer, I joined the protesters asking for clarification about the true circumstances of Ms. Sandra Bland’s death.  I met Ms. Bland’s mother and a friendship was forged during the months she was trying to determine the truth about what happened to her daughter.  A civil suit was settled between Waller County and Ms. Bland’s family. Part of that settlement required reforms in procedures in the jail. I am proud that I was one of those who advocated for the passage of the Sandra Bland Act, which was passed into law and signed by Governor Abbott June 15, 2017.

There are many law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect us every day. We should have mental health professionals responding to many calls that are funneled to the police. They are not trained for this and should not be involved. As your Representative, I will fight for more funding for mental health responses to 911 calls where that intervention is needed. 

If elected, I will always support equal rights for all, in any position in their lives. I will have an open door policy. Anyone can talk to me. I will listen, maintain confidentiality and help wherever I can.