Defeat The Hate

Hi, my name is Abby Whitesel and I’m the daughter of Kathy Bell Copeland and step daughter of Denise Bell Copeland. My mom is a beloved leader in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and the heart behind Wortley Pride.

On May 13th, my mother’s and step mother's car was vandalized in her own driveway. We were shocked and heartbroken, but we did everything we could to clean up the damage and move forward. Ten days later, it happened again.

The vandals slashed her tires, spray-painted her car, license plates, shed, and fence — a cruel and deliberate attack on people who have dedicated their life to building a safe, inclusive, and loving community for others.

Despite our best efforts to remove the paint ourselves, we couldn’t restore everything. Kathy and Denise had to replace their tires and take their car to an auto body shop after the first attack — and now, she’s forced to do it all over again.

Police reports have been filed, but unfortunately, there’s little they can do. We’re asking for your help to support Kathy and Denise as they deal with the financial and emotional toll of these hateful acts. No one deserves to feel unsafe in their own home — especially for 2 people who gives so much of themselves to others.

All funds raised will go directly toward the cost of repairs and security improvements to help prevent this from happening again.

Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and love.