FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS STATEMENT
CONTACT media@aprnetwork.org
SAVANNAH –– Last Saturday, American Pride Rises (APR) launched its Summer of Us Campaign with an event in Savannah. APR partnered with New Disabled South to empower residents and advocates with tools and resources and join lawmakers including Georgia State Reps. Anne Allen Westbrook (D-163) and Long Tran (D-80) in protecting opportunity for all by defending diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and uplifting voices from the disability community.
“DEI is under attack in Georgia and we are fighting that every step of the way because we know that diversity is our strength. We live in a multi racial democracy and we’re going to keep it that way,” said Georgia State Rep. Anne Allen Westbrook (D-163). “We’re in a battle of ideas and we are going to keep fighting this because our students need to learn. Our representation needs to reflect our community. And our businesses need to reflect our community. There’s folks who don’t want people to know the real story of America and Georgia and we’re not going to let that happen”
“The disability community is the only community that anyone can join at any point in their life. And I know this to be true because in February of 2018, I was not a member of the disability community. It is so very important that we continue to fight for accessibility in all areas and in all spaces,” said Dr. Chantrise Holliman, First Lady of St. Phillips AME Church. ”It’s amazing how more aware we become when we’re thinking about someone we know. Now, all of you know me. So when you go places, I want you to consider, would Chantrise be able to go here? And if the answer is no, I want you to do something about it.”
The Summer of Us campaign is a strategic initiative designed to defend the progress made since 2020, when multiracial coalitions and community movements united around justice and equity. In the face of mounting anti-DEI backlash, this campaign will celebrate milestones, call out efforts to erase history, and equip individuals to advocate for inclusion. Through events held nationwide, this campaign will push back on the anti-DEI narrative by affirming the true patriotism in inclusion and celebration of our diversity.
About American Pride Rises:
American Pride Rises (APR) is an initiative committed to protecting pathways to the American Dream by fighting for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive America for all.