UPDATE(12/13): I have still not received unemployment or any benefits so I am needing to raise my ask to 9k. Please continue sharing and donating where possible, tysm!

Hi community,

I was recently let go from my job and am needing economic & emotional support until I can get back on my feet. If you feel more comfortable donating outside of this platform my venmo is @gearedsnail and my cashapp is $gearedsnail. Any and all help is appreciated.

How this happened:

Early October, I took a week off to go care for my grandfather, who like many of you know has been struggling with cancer for the last few years, I extended my stay a week with approval from my job who insisted there was nothing more important than my family and health. When I came back I got sick with bronchitis (used sick days), in the middle of which I received a phone call from my job letting me know “I was no longer a good fit” and not allowed on premise to get my things or say bye to coworkers. No two weeks notice, nothing…after giving this non-profit 3 years of my time.

Before leaving to care for my grandpa I had begun being very vocal at work about not feeling safe/ok with things my immediate supervisor was doing/saying to me and other staff. I was not the only one speaking up but I do feel like my voice encouraged others to, making me a bigger threat and repeating the history of those who were managed out before me for doing the same. I was put on a performance review which I refused to sign and fought because I felt it was retaliatory and inaccurate. Long story short, I was let go in a really fucked up way and ultimately for opening my mouth to speak a truth. I don't regret it obviously but am now needing more help than ever. I hope sharing this encourages folks to do what's right in your lives even if the cost is high and uncomfortable.

Next steps:

I’m currently waiting to see if/when unemployment gets approved but it won't be another 3 weeks til I know for sure. With my roommate of 5 years recently moving out, my expenses have doubled so the timing of this is really something. The last few months have been so charged but I’m grateful to be alive and on the path I’m on, I know this is all part of creators much bigger plan. Thanks for caring & reading if you did<3

Other forms of support:

Book me for services listed @gearedsnail (ig)

Book me for a market or skillshare at muyu.earth (browser & ig)

If you are unable to donate or book me please consider calling me, spending quality time, writing me a letter and/or spotting me with food. Big love to you.

THERE IS NOTHING MORE URGENT THAN FREEDOM

yawati

About me:

I'm a disabled first-generation migrant-native to the Americas, a community cultural worker, organizer, herbalist and seed keeper based in Jersey City: unceded Munsee Lunaape land. My home has doubled as a community center for the last 7 years and I'm a proud queer mom to 2 catsos and a pupper.