Myoshi Was Unfairly Fired- Let's Support Her!

I'm launching this fundraiser for my friend and organizing ally Myoshi Smith. In her own words:

"In the midst of fear, anger, and mourning that has gripped this past month, I found clarity and hope standing with IfNotNow in DC on October 16th. We peacefully protested at the White House, demanding a cease-fire in Gaza. That day, I sang, screamed, marched, and stood with my Jewish sisters and brothers for what I knew to be right.

Since then, I've used my platform to educate, uplift marginalized communities, and confront bigotry. I was prepared to lose followers and business, but what blindsided me was losing my full-time job at Hopscotch Bottleshop on October 31st. Why? Because I used my voice to speak about my experiences as a Black, queer, fat woman [in white organizing spaces] and voiced my opposition to the ongoing tragedy in Gaza."

I am absolutely furious that Myoshi was fired, ostensibly to protect me (a white woman) who Myoshi was venting about. Myoshi is a person with moral clarity and isn’t afraid to speak truth to power. Despite not being a Jew, Myoshi has thrown herself into being the press liaison for IfNotNow Baltimore and given so much time and heart to our group.

IfNotNow Baltimore firmly believes that white-led organizing spaces must be open to genuine and necessary conversations with our Black allies. Myoshi is facing repercussions for bravely speaking her truth—a truth that deserves to be heard.

Please support Myoshi as she is now facing the holidays with no income and the imminent loss of her health insurance.