By Susan Schopp

This weekend I had the opportunity to hang out with my good friend Karen Chattum. I met Karen many years ago when we often found ourselves at the same breakfast table at now closed, Eva’s Escape Bed and Breakfast. The luxurious Eva’s was located just off S. Alamo Street in Southtown near the King William District.

We lost touch for many years, and I can’t even remember how we reconnected. The important part is we did meet again, and I found that Karen, who is a light to behold on her own, was up to some important, meaningful and creative work.

WE SPEAK UP FOR THE VOICELESS, the non-profit that she founded, works in the community to “bring awareness to social issues that plague our society.”  Karen, often called Minister Karen, has a long list of accomplishments, awards and is always at work on her next project. Her husband, Curtis Dozier, is always by her side and handles a/v production. Along with COO Leah Barkley Ysaguirre, her team is dedicated and passionate about her mission.

Her most recent event was held at the Barbara Jordan Community Center and was a perfect mix of informative talks, motivational speakers and one of Karen’s signature plays, “Karen Chattum’s: The Day They Broke My Heart”.

The play represents a situation that could have had a tragic outcome. A young girl in trouble was again in the principal’s office. Her mother had been shot and killed and she was under the care of her Aunty Davis, played by Karen Chattum.  Her Aunty, who was tired and frustrated with the angry teen had many problems of her own and was burned out.

The teen, played by Freeda Smith, explained her belief that she needed to protect herself with a gun, both for protection and street “cred.” The conversation took place between her Aunty Davis, Zaharie Jewel, (Freeda) and School Principal Barkley, billed as a “woman of great character”. The play gave audience members insight into the thoughts and potential actions of the teen, the Aunt, the Principal, and two intolerable onlooking staff members.

“Enough” is a creative, dramatic, and often comedic look into a situation that plays out in our schools every day. It also exemplifies the difference that one person can make.

Karen’s next play is scheduled for October 15 and will be held at Our Lady of the Lake University. We would love to see you there!

To be notified about future events, send We Speak Up an  email.

Stay tuned!passionate