What is Rebel Heifer?
Rebel Heifer Inc is a 501(c)(3) registered public charity that uses art to raise awareness and inspire action for social causes, with a focus on the rights and wellbeing of women, children, and marginalized groups. Through advocacy, education, and creative expression, we aim to empower communities and support meaningful change.
It was founded by Sarah Gilmore – a teacher, mother, artist, and general troublemaker from Scotland.
EIN: 33-2004031.
Why was it founded?
I have always enjoyed being creative, and I’ve always been passionate about social causes – particularly those that affect women and children. I’m a former elementary school teacher (now doing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction), a mother, and about as far to the left of the political spectrum as you can get without falling off. I’m an unapologetic feminist and, coming from Scotland, I have a firm belief in socialist principles that boil down to “we should all care for one another”, “everyone has a right to live in health, safety, and peace”, and “none of should be rich while some of us are still poor.”
The current political climate in the U.S. is unfortunately not aligned with these values, and many vulnerable and marginalized people are at enormous risk. I founded Rebel Heifer Inc as a way to try to advocate for change, draw attention to causes I believe in, and support the work that incredible organizations in this country are already doing.
Athena Rising, ink, watercolor, and gold leaf on canvas
The Athena design speaks to the need for wisdom, protection, and justice in ending child gun deaths in the U.S.
What does it do?
I create artwork that aims to prompt conversation and act as a vehicle for sharing information about issues that have long existed in the U.S. but which are more urgent than ever in the light of policies likely to be introduced following the recent election. These include gun control and child gun deaths, attacks on women’s reproductive rights, maternal health and support particularly for Black and Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ rights, detained and separated migrant families, women’s rights and more.
20% of the price of every piece of art that I sell is donated directly to organizations working to support those causes and protect the rights and wellbeing of people in need. The remainder is used to help support Rebel Heifer’s own work to educate people through art and help others to start conversations about these issues with the people in their lives.