Advocates of vegan and eco-friendly clothing, let’s take a moment to shine a light on a tireless advocate for women’s rights.
On July 3, 2008, Jana Mackey was killed by her ex-boyfriend, and after the police caught up with the suspect, he killed himself.
That could be a line from any evening newscast, lead in your town’s paper, or favorite blog. Instead it summarizes one of the more shocking murders to hit the feminist community. By the age of 25, Jana had helped organize buses for the 2004 March for Women’s Lives, had been a lobbyist in the Kansas state legislature and started law school. Her goal was to be a legal advocate for women who found themselves in violent situations. She packed a lot in her short life. Her death was mourned on many blogs by those who did and didn’t know her and even spawned a Facebook group.
1,100 people attended Jana’s memorial service, and that was included in the name of a new organization that hopes to carry on her work… 1,100 Torches.
1,100 people doing good in the world through service and election work.
1,100 people working towards justice and equality.
1,100 people being motivated by one woman’s work.
As Domestic Violence Awareness month comes to a close, 1,100 Torches is preparing for an official kick-off for the campaign and a benefit. The details aren’t up yet, but do check the 1,100 Torches website as we get closer to November 13th. If you are in Kansas, please check out the event.