Last week, EJ Carrion stood before the Tarrant County Commissioners Court to exercise a right that belongs to every one of us: the right to speak during public comment.

Just one week later, he was taken to jail.

Regardless of where you fall politically, this should concern anyone who believes that everyday people deserve a voice in their government.

For years, EJ has built the platform, the 817 Pod, asking difficult questions, challenging those in power, and encouraging people to become engaged in local government. This work has been centered in accountability, transparency, and making sure everyday people aren’t ignored. This then lead to the creation of the 817 Gather, a progressive community focused on building community and taking action together.

Now, with this attack on his First Amendment rights, we know there will be costs associated for standing up and advocating for progress and transformation. Navigating the justice system is costly, and we want to make sure we support and stand with EJ.

Community organizing comes with expected and unexpected costs. Let's create a movement that builds support for those who organize and advocate in our community.

This is a major moment for all of us. This is about whether members of our community can speak at public meetings, question elected officials, and hold our government accountable without fearing financial ruin when conflict arises.

If you’ve ever believed someone should have the courage to ask the question everyone else is afraid to ask…
If you’ve ever appreciated independent voices willing to challenge the status quo…
If you’ve ever worried that public participation is becoming more difficult…

Now is the moment to stand with them.

Whether you can give $10, $25, $100, or more, every contribution sends the same message:

Our community will not abandon people who stand up for it.

If you’re unable to donate, you can still make an enormous difference by sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and social media networks. Visibility matters. Community matters. Solidarity matters.

Together, we can ensure that access to justice isn’t reserved only for those who can afford it.

Please donate today, share this campaign widely, and help defend the right to speak truth to power.

Thank you for standing with EJ!

In partnership with the 817 Gather and Tarrant4Change