Dear Friends,
We are writing to ask for your support for Rosa Clemente, an incredible organizer, independent journalist, community organizer, and 2008 Green Party Vice-President candidate. who has been tirelessly working for racial & social justice and equity for over 25 years. Unfortunately, Rosa’s health has taken a challenging turn since she underwent major surgery in November.
Rosa has been diagnosed with severe spinal canal stenosis. People with spinal stenosis are likely to experience a notable degree of disability with back pain and neurological symptoms, including pain with standing and walking.
To make matters worse, she recently suffered a seizure and was rushed to the hospital and has been experiencing shortness of breath, which is a new symptom that is causing concern for her heart health.
Rosa has gone to many doctors and no one believed her. All of this is preventable with timely diagnosis. Lots of unnecessary pain, suffering, and now, lifelong effects. The surgery in November brought much of this to light.
We know that Rosa has selflessly supported our communities. This is a time for our community to come together and wrap their arms around Rosa to uplift her and continue to allow her to maintain her independence and sense of dignity. Rosa has already lost some opportunities and this has led to financial stress. Here is how you can help:
- Donate directly to Rosa via Paypal (clementerosa@gmail.com) // Venmo (@clementerosa) // CashApp ($blkrican72)
- Hire Rosa for virtual paid speaking engagements, especially since doctors have prohibited her from driving and flying alone for the next 3 months: Rosa is an experienced and dynamic speaker who can speak on a wide range of topics related to social justice, equity, and activism, as well as one of the most respected scholars and professors around for Black Latinx identity and politics. We encourage you to push your friends or institutes to hire Rosa for virtual paid speaking engagements, and she will also be able to do interviews.
- Share this GiveInKind.com link with your networks: We know that many of you have been touched by Rosa’s work. Your support with everyday items can make a big difference.
Rosa, her family, and her friends are incredibly grateful for all the help that they have received so far, and they appreciate your support. We are also asking if you want to talk to Rosa, it’s easier to text her or email her. We hope that you can join us in supporting Rosa during this difficult time. She has always been a fierce advocate for social justice, and now it’s our turn to advocate for her. Thank you for your support.
With love and justice,
Yanira Castro and Willie Clemente (Rosa’s sister and brother)
Mahdis Keshavarz Principle, The Make Agency
Dr. Victorio Reyes, Professor
Shaka King, Writer and Director, Judas and the Black Messiah
P.S. We also want to note that you can catch Rosa on the new PBS/BBC documentary, How Hip Hop Changed the World, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch Rosa share her insights and experiences in this groundbreaking film.
