Erica Thompson gave birth inside a jail cell at Alachua County Jail. Shortly after, baby Ava died. Dignity Power, GoDDsville and Florida Prisoner Solidarity organized the Justice for Heaven and Ava protest to bring awareness of what happened. Protestors blocked Northeast 39th Avenue right by the entrance to the jail. Many different chants were started throughout the protest, including "It is our duty to stand up and protect our people!" and "We have nothing to lose but our chains!"
Lauren is a third year photojournalism student pursuing a minor in Spanish. She has shot photos for Fresh Take Florida and the Gainesville Sun. Lauren likes roller skating in her free time.
UF ACCENT Speakers Bureau hosts Dylan Sprouse, Nelly
Apr. 14Nelly and Dylan Sprouse appeared at UF for two events hosted by the ACCENT Speakers Bureau Feb. 9 and Feb. 11.
UF Student Government 2024 Executive Ticket Debate
Feb. 13UF students gathered at the Reitz Grand Ballroom Feb. 12 to watch Change Party's and Vision Party's Spring 2024 executive ticket candidates debate in preparation for the upcoming Student Government election.
A glance at reality for Gainesville City Commissioner-at-Large Reina Saco
Feb. 4Reina Saco and her family immigrated from Cuba to the United States when she was 4. They were held in a refugee camp for about a year before being paroled. Today, she is a Gainesville city commissioner-at-large -- a highly educated woman who strives to assist low-income and immigrant community members while maintaining the city's safety. Saco recently gave birth to her first child, Jojo. She works with her husband, Adam, to balance motherhood and government all at once. Holding a powerful position as a woman, immigrant and mother puts her in uncomfortable and dangerous situations daily, yet she remains brave and bold in her actions, words and lifestyle.