Legal Defense Fund for Toren (#RightsDefender)

Hi, my name is Lora and I'm one of the mama bears of Toren McKnight. Toren has been a tireless social justice advocate, defender, and protector of not just the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Southern Oregon, but of women's rights and other marginalized and oppressed communities as well. I'm so proud of his courage and tenacity in the face of the hatred that he and his fellow activists face every day.

What happened? Toren and the Rogue Valley Pepper Shakers (a local social justice organization he helped found) were invited to attend the Roseburg Oregon Pride event on Saturday, July 1st. Their presence was requested to help shield the attendees of the event from the local hate groups who persistently show up to harass and berate community members attending these events. While I can't get into the details of what occurred due to the ongoing legal case, Toren was arrested and is being charged in relation to an alleged altercation with one of the "protestors" who had broken through security and entered the event.

What do we need? We are requesting your help in putting together a legal defense fund to help Toren fight the charges against him. We have retained an attorney who is a strong ally to our community and who we believe will be able to offer a strong defense for Toren. Unfortunately, that kind of representation comes with a price. The funds raised will be used directly for legal fees related to Toren’s case, as well as travel expenses back and forth to Roseburg. If there are any donations we receive above what is needed for this case, they will be donated to help other activists or groups who fight to defend women's rights and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Thank you for your support! We know that Toren and the RV Pepper Shakers have a huge base of support. I've seen the passion, love, and encouragement that folks not just here in the Rogue Valley, but across the country, have shown to them as they fight for the rights and dignity of our communities. Thank you for your financial support in putting together this legal defense fund for Toren. When we stand together, we stand strong!

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