Hey to all my LGBTQIA+ family! My name is Tanya Rochelle and I'm in prison about to be released after doing 25 years. I have nobody but a couple of friends, all my family died while I was in here. I have a biological family I don't know. I'm 44 years old seeking help to help better transition back into society. Please send donations to my GoFundMe if you would like to help... I love cooking, singing, and giving back to my community. Thank you and God Bless you all and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Tanya Rochelle

***Scroll down to see a video of Tanya singing!***

From Katherine:

Tanya and I have known each other for 10 years now. We originally met through Flying Over Walls, an abolitionist organization in the Bay Area that matches queer and trans incarcerated folks with penpals on the outside.

I’m so excited for Tanya to get out of prison after 25 years. Because of the anti trans hate she’s experienced in prison, her sentence has been extended far beyond what it was originally.

I have supported another friend adjusting to life on the outside after an extended prison sentence, and through that experience know that any support is helpful and important given all the challenges of trying to survive while being formerly incarcerated. Tanya has been planning for her release and has several ideas of support that would be helpful to her, including this GoFundMe. Any money she raises will help cover the many expenses she will face when she’s released. She is particularly concerned about housing since she will be paroled in LA county, where housing is so expensive, so she is hoping this money will be a little cushion for her as she adjusts to life on the outside. Thank you for whatever you can donate. May all incarcerated people everywhere be free.

In solidarity,

Katherine