Dee was the founder and leader of one of our grantees, Survivor Speak USA, an organization led by and serving survivors of sex trafficking. Survivor Speak USA is a beautiful expression of Dee’s vision of the value of healing and the importance of uplifting the experiences, voices, and leadership of survivors. Dee was a survivor herself and devoted her life to advocating against human trafficking, sexual violence, and exploitation. 

But that was just a part of Dee’s work and legacy. We first met Dee through her leadership of Homeless Voices for Justice, another grantee organization and a powerful advocacy network of folks with lived experience of homelessness and poverty bringing their wisdom and voices to the halls of power. 

Dee was always a powerful voice speaking truth to power. But what we will remember most is her smile. Dee was a person who brought light and joy with her everywhere she went. We honor her and are grateful for her life and work.

In remembrance and gratitude,

The Maine Initiatives Team