Support Rachael's Legal Defense

TW: Domestic Violence (DV) Sexual Assault (SA)

This is an on-going court case and traumatic for Rachael - Please do not approach Rachael in person or online to talk about this case or her ex.

In 2023 Rachael's ex-partner served her a lawsuit for publicly speaking out about his domestic violence. Perpetrators of domestic violence can abuse the court system to continue to control their victims. The case was dismissed as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP suit) but now her ex is appealing the dismissal. Rachael was not given a free lawyer for her defense. Rachael is unable to keep up with her legal bills and runs the risk of continuing in appeals without one. I am here to ask you to help Rachael defend herself by contributing to her legal defense fund. I hope to raise $55,000 to cover Rachael's legal expenses.

SLAPP suits like this can help abusers stay in control of their victims. Navigating this lawsuit has made her feel similar to the control and manipulation she experienced in her relationship with her ex. She has felt so alone living a double life working in nightlife with a smile on her face, while at home she has felt deeply depressed, anxious, unsafe, and alienated from her friends, family, and community.

Rachael is unable to keep up with her legal bills and runs the risk of not having one while her ex drags her through appeals. I hope to raise $55,000 to cover Rachael's legal expenses, including $35,000 for current bills and an additional $20,000 for appeals.

While many of you might know Rachael as the artist liaison at Basement NY — I’ve known her for almost 10 years. We first met starting out as teachers together in the NYC school system. Within a month of knowing her, I knew she was not only a deeply thoughtful and dedicated educator, but also an incredibly kind person. She’s one of my closest friends and favorite humans that I’ve ever met. She has a deep love for friends and her community and even refers to her position at Basement as “artist care” because to her the care she gives is the most important part. I find this continued case to be so utterly devastating.

Rachael is someone I have known to always stand up for what she believes in and help others. She taught her elementary school English Language Learners through photography by crowdfunding to buy them cameras and a photo printer. Rachael has helped throw benefits and create GoFundMe’s for many ravers including some detained by ICE, and RASH employees injured in the fire. She has more recently focused on helping others affected by SA and DV in her community. As long as I have known her Rachael has consistently supported others. Now it's our turn to support her. Your contribution will help Rachael protect herself and continue her fight against DV.

The best way to support Rachael right now is to donate and share this. Your support is crucial in this ongoing battle. Please do not reach out to Rachael in person or online to talk about this case or her ex.

Thank you for standing with Rachael against domestic violence and sexual assault.