Dialogue

A CRY UNHEEDED

Laela Threadgill was my sister, and this article (“See No Evil,” March 7) explains everything. Emily, you are an amazing writer, and more messages like this need to be brought to people’s attention to let them know how unprotected women really are. Laela was extremely afraid. I remember one time she stood outside the police station calling for help, but no one came to help her!

Megan Threadgillvia e-mail

MORE HELPING HANDS

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid commends The Texas Observer for its recent look into the resources available for victims of domestic violence in the Austin area (“The Safe Place,” March 7). Victims of domestic violence often face numerous legal difficulties in separating from their abuser, protecting their children, and rebuilding their lives. TRLA is proud to offer its services, both in Travis County and throughout Central, South, and West Texas, to help domestic violence victims navigate the legal system in the process of obtaining protective orders, divorces, child support, and additional resources. Through our unique Legal Access to Rural Shelters initiative, TRLA works closely with shelters in our service area to provide domestic violence victims with legal assistance from the moment they seek outside help.

We strongly encourage people needing legal assistance in the Austin area to contact us at 512-374-2777. More information on our services and contact information for our other offices is available at www.trla.org.

Kevin DietzTexas RioGrande Legal AidAustin

MEMORY LANE

I really enjoyed the piece about the early years of the ACLU in Texas (“The ACLU in Texas-The Early Years,” March 7).Such glimpses into the history of progressive activism in a regressive state like Texas are fascinating. The fact that people have been willing to struggle against such difficult odds is reassuring, and somehow offers hope that we may one day emerge into the 20th century. The 21st century may remain beyond reach for some time yet.

Bill CowanBeaumont

Thanks, Dave Richards, for helping us remember those who have made a difference … including you!

Tom Green via e-mail

GRINGO MADE GOOD

Mr. Hoinski writes in a way that just pulls you into the music and wraps you up in the border tensions that face many in Texas (“Tear Down the Wall,” March 7). As an Hispanic American, it’s nice to see a “gringo” like Mr. Hoinski really get into this important issue. I’d love to see more from him in the Observer.

Daniel Galaburdavia e-mail

NO WALL HIGH ENOUGH

Excellent report, Melissa del Bosque (“Holes in the Wall,” February 22). Thank you for pointing out the financial and political innuendos, and for punching holes in the myth that this wall was spearheaded by people who care about illegal immigration. Couldn’t our tax dollars be spent more wisely than having so much money go toward a wall?

Allissa Chambersvia e-mail

Thanks for your excellent article on the border fence. I hope some national newspaper picks up the story to make it more widely known.

Bob Baker Los Angeles, California