Controversy Surrounds Comments After Texas Floods
A former appointee of the Democratic mayor in Houston has faced backlash after a fundraiser was launched for “legal support.” This follows her remarks on social media regarding the race of 27 girls from Camp Mystic, who tragically lost their lives in recent Hill Country floods.
In a video, Sade Perkins described the camp as “a Christian camp for girls exclusively for white people.” However, she overlooked mentioning the diverse backgrounds of more than 200 others impacted by the floods throughout several counties in Texas.
Perkins stated, “It’s all white, just white, conservative Christian camp… I’m not saying we don’t want to find a girl, what about the missing girl… But especially in today’s political situation, if this is a group of Hispanic girls… this isn’t getting the kind of coverage they’re getting.”
As parents struggle for answers concerning the missing campers, a crowdfunding effort named “Support for Sade Perkins” has begun. This campaign features images of the young girls who perished in the floods and is organized by Marian Hills. The fundraiser is anticipated to assist Perkins, who previously served on the Houston Food Anxiety Commission.
“Sade Perkins is a public target for telling the truth,” read the organizers’ message, emphasizing that Perkins echoed sentiments many were too afraid to voice. According to Hill, Perkins has faced harassment and negative messages following the incident. Mayor John Whitmire remarked that Perkins’ termination was a response to public outrage, although Hill claims she resigned on her own terms in January.
Despite her comments sparking significant controversy, some supporters assert that Perkins is experiencing “racialized violence” for speaking out. Hill pointed out that if a white public figure had expressed similar views, it would have led to a different reaction, suggesting that Perkins, as a Black woman, was unfairly treated.
The campaign aims to raise funds for Perkins’ legal support and repair her reputation, with a current goal of $20,000. While most donations are modest, some responses include racial slurs and hateful messages that have gained considerable traction.
Although Perkins hasn’t publicly commented on the fundraising efforts, her boyfriend, Pastor Colin Bossan, expressed on his website that he disavows her remarks. He acknowledged that her comments have hurt many, emphasizing that she did not speak on behalf of him or his congregation.
