Kick off the holidays by giving back. Join GLAAD on #GivingTuesday to raise critical funds and expand #SouthernStories, GLAAD's project to put a human face on the challenges LGBT people face in the American South. All this week to celebrate Thanksgiving, GLAAD is sharing some of the stories behind this campaign. Take a look at the story of Kristene Chapa, from Sinton, Texas.
In 2012, Kristene Chapa and Mollie Olgin, a couple of five months, were brutally attacked at Violet Andrews Park in Portland, Texas. The two were assaulted and shot in the head, execution style. Mollie died at the scene but Kristene, left for dead but found by a bird-watcher the following morning, was rushed to the hospital with head injuries. She survived and is continuing to recover every day, through the support of family and friends.
As the trial for her shooter is approaching, GLAAD has been working with Kristene and her supporters in Texas and around the country to build media attention and popular support. Kristene and Mollie's story has captured the attention of local media in south Texas. At a recent hearing for their shooter, supporters rallied outside of the courthouse, speaking to the media about the need to curb violence in Texas. The #justice4krisandmollie movement has continued to grow. Local media continues the coverage, and national media is starting to pay attention for the first time in two years, including upcoming pieces from MSNBC and Telemundo.
The next pre-trial hearing is in February, and GLAAD is continuously working with Kristene and her family.
You can join in the support by visiting www.glaad.org/justice4krisandmollie, tweeting with the hashtag #justice4krisandmollie, or donating to Kristene's Go Fund Me page.
GLAAD gives voice to LGBT people and allies by amplifying inspiring and impactful stories aimed at leveraging the power of the media to change culture. Are you a Southerner who has a story you believe deserves attention from GLAAD and the media? Share it with us. We may feature your story in the GLAAD Newsroom and with local, regional or national media. And be sure to support GLAAD on #GivingTuesday.