Stand with Saara. Support Survivors.

This June, I’ll be celebrating 9 years at SF AWS. I’ve been committed to the work of addressing gender-based violence for over a decade — and what keeps me going is the unwavering power of community in the face of harm. The violence we experience at home and the violence we witness in the world are deeply connected. And right now, the weight of what’s happening globally can feel overwhelming.

I’ve always brought a grassroots, community-grounded lens to all forms of violence. What I’ve always known to be true is this: we all share a responsibility to change the narrative, to confront the inequities that fuel harm, and to stop pretending that “problems at home” and “abroad” are separate — because they’re not.

We all have the power:
— To listen.
— To offer financial support and mutual aid.
— To connect survivors with services.
— To educate our communities.
— To expand what’s possible.

Violence can affect anyone — and when it does, our communities should be a lifeline. We should be able to turn to our neighbors, loved ones, and service providers for care and support.

Survivors consistently inspire me — not just through their personal strength, but in how they resist and navigate systemic harm with resilience and clarity. When we show up as a community, we affirm their dignity and help create space for healing, safety, and new possibilities.

Unfortunately, the targeted defunding of our communities and support services is a harsh reality we’re now facing. But we have never done this work alone — and we won’t start now. Community sustains us. Whether it’s through showing up, donating, or advocating, we make this work possible together.

I hope you’ll continue to stand with me — for each other and for survivors.

If you're in the Bay Area, join us for the Jook Off, Cook Off on May 17th!  — a celebration of resilience, culture, and community care.