To our community,
A young woman in our community has gone up against one of the most powerful systems in our province, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and in doing so she stood up to a rape culture that permeates and tries to defeat us. We do not know the identity of this woman, or if she is aware of the immense impact that her trial has had on survivors and the community, but it is safe to say she has inspired change. Her actions changed the conversation; in coming forward she has forced the justice system and the public to question the validity of the process.
For this we want to say THANK YOU! We have been dubbed The Thank You Project; our purpose is to send cards and letters thanking this woman, supporting her and letting her know that we believe her. The cards can come in days, weeks or months – she has a lifetime of healing ahead. The court of public opinion can be cruel and we want to counteract those negative voices with the voice of positivity and support and love.
The Thank You Project is a community support piece and we are therefor welcoming the support and contribution of any and all individuals who would like to send in a card of their own, a small group, or host card making events. If there is an event happening in your community, where a table could be set up and stocked with craft making supplies for attendees to create cards, we would be thrilled to have you involved. If groups are able to provide their own supplies and volunteers this would be greatly appreciated as we are not a registered charity and there have not been any funds allocated or official volunteers secured. For groups in the St. John’s region we have collected limited crafting items and would be able to offer assistance in this manner.
I am happy to hear from anyone who would like to be involved, has an idea to put forward, or would if you like to send along a card of your own. I can be reached at thankyounl@outlook.com for further discussion and information on card drop locations.
I look forward to seeing the creations of support from our community.
With gratitude,
Ashley MacDonald
