Jacqueline Dixon is now free -- but the fight to protect survivors continues.
Let Jacqueline Dixon know she is not alone and we will keep fighting her and all survivors.
Dear friend,
Jacqueline Dixon, a Black mother of four, was facing life in prison for surviving domestic abuse--but after we demanded justice, she’s finally free ! On October 12th, a grand jury in Alabama dismissed the murder charges brought against Jacqueline for defending herself in an attack from her abusive husband. Now, her life and ability to provide for her children is no longer hanging in the balance. This is a HUGE victory for Jacqueline and her family. It is a major step in the right direction to end the criminalization of survivors of domestic violence. This win would not have been possible if it weren’t for your support, dear friend.
Together, we pushed back against District Attorney Michael Jackson, who pursued the charges against Jacqueline. Thousands of Color Of Change members signed our petition, made phone calls to the DA’s office, and even faxed letters demanding that DA Jackson drop the charges against Jacqueline. The message was loud and clear : #ProtectBlackWomen.
Now that Jacqueline is finally able to take the steps to rebuild her life -- let's send her words of encouragement. One of the most difficult experiences after enduring abuse, is getting justice and finding a way to move forward. Letting Jacqueline know that we support her is one of the best ways to keep the fight going for Jacqueline and for other survivors. We will be sure to send your note to Jacqueline to let her know she is not alone in this fight.
This victory gives us the momentum we need to continue to fight for survivors justice. Black women survivors of abuse are rarely afforded the right to protect and defend themselves. Right now, millions of women and girls who are incarcerated also survived violence and abuse. Many women, just like Jacqueline, have put their lives at risk to protect themselves against an abuser. Our communities lose when survivors are then locked up and further traumatized by the criminal legal system. Every elected prosecutor has a responsibility to advocate for more robust, safe, and accessible services and resources for survivors and their families. Criminal prosecution against survivors is not the answer.
We are excited and ready for the next step in calling on prosecutors like DA Jackson and others to stop punishing survivors and start supporting them. Will you join us in showing Jacqueline Dixon support ?
Until justice is real,
Clarise, Rashad, Arisha, Scott, Anay, Kristen, Marena, and the rest of the Color Of Change team
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