I Never Lost My Voice
Theresa Dolata’s Testimony for Bring It Home, MN.
“Of all the things that have been taken away from me in life, I never lost my voice.”
For Theresa Dolata, it’s empowering whenever she shares her story. When we first met Theresa in our congregational spotlight on St. Joan of Arc Catholic Community, she shared why this work was so important to her and the congregation. Now, she continues to use her voice for home.
“A lot of legislators just look at the numbers,” she thought aloud. “When you share your story and how it impacts you, they don’t forget it. Being homeless is traumatic. There is a lot of power in storytelling.”
Sharing her lived experience, Theresa has been proud to give her testimony in support of Beacon’s Bring It Home, MN rent subsidy campaign. Theresa believes in home because she knows it is a basic human right. Reflecting on the frigid temperatures of the last few weeks, she is thankful to have a stable home. However, she knows that there are too many individuals struggling to find the same support she has.
“I need to make sure our elected officials are listening and that my story has an impact. I am not another number. I am a person who deserves dignity and respect. And it’s so empowering to know that I can make change with my story…”
