I want to give you an update on our group’s efforts and current fundraising.  You have all been quite generous in donating to this cause and because of your efforts we have been able to do great things to move forward.  Most significantly, two weeks ago Elizabeth filed the Motion to Intervene and Objection to the Mitchell settlement outlining our arguments.  That motion has gotten substantial media attention, and she has had interviews with several news outlets, including appearing live on Dr. Drew’s radio show today.  The response has been incredibly positive and we want to capitalize on that momentum.

The motion to intervene was fantastic (and legally necessary), with significant legal arguments and compelling stories.  Much of this work will also be helpful going forward in the next phase.  We recognize that it is an uphill battle objecting to the settlement at this stage, however, procedurally, it must be done.  That said, we want to use this momentum as a launching point to pursue an affirmative suit against the City to force our leaders to act in this crisis. The confidential trust account, set up by the Spertus law firm, currently has approximately $16,000 remaining in funds, all of which I expect will be used to fund the “reply” to the City and Carol Sobel’s Opposition to our Motion to Intervene, and the court appearance(s) thereafter.  In case there is any doubt, please know that I am personally reviewing and approving all bills, and I am confident the firm has used our funds wisely (including donating significant amounts of their time for free). It’s a huge testament to all of you that we were able to raise the funds we have to support this effort to the end. Thank you.

However, if we are to turn to the next phase and move on to the affirmative suit, we need to raise additional funds.  This can come from you, your friends, associates, business partners, etc.  We have built a coalition of organizations and entities that are willing to partner with us on this suit, and we know there are a lot of people who want to help this effort that have not yet been contacted.

Today we have established a GoFundMe account to collect funds: https://www.gofundme.com/dtla-alliance-for-human-rights or visit www.gofundme.com and search “DTLA Alliance for Human Rights.” This link can be shared via social media, email, text, etc.  Alternatively you can ask people to send a check made out to Spertus, Landes, & Umhofer Client Trust Account, with the notation “DTLA” on it, to Accounting, 1990 S. Bundy Dr., Suite 705, Los Angeles, CA 90025.  As always, donations can be made anonymously.

I have attached a fact sheet that can be sent if that would be easier to spread the word.  Please feel free to contact me directly with any questions.  Thank you for your help.