Honoring a Legacy: Fighting for Equity in Texas

As my ancestor Micajah Autry wrote in 1836, “I go whole hog in the cause of Texas.”

As a proud Texan, I have always felt a deep connection to the history and values that define our great state. My commitment to justice and reform is further inspired by my own family heritage—my ancestor, Micajah Autry, who fought and died at the Alamo. Micajah Autry was not only a courageous defender but also a lawyer and a poet. His legacy embodies the spirit of bravery, intellectual pursuit, and sacrifice that we all strive to uphold.

Micajah Autry’s dedication and ultimate sacrifice for Texas independence remains indisputable. This historical connection fuels my determination to challenge the corrupted status quo within our state government. Just as Micajah Autry stood against overwhelming odds, I am committed to fighting for transparency, accountability, and the well-being of all Texans, including those subjected to extreme heat conditions in our prison system.

With this spirit of courage and dedication, I am fortunate to be part of the legal team addressing the urgent issue of extreme prison heat in Texas. Our legal efforts aim to protect the rights and dignity of individuals, reflecting the core values of justice, humanity, and equity that are intrinsic to our state’s history and personified by my ancestor.

Furthermore, part of my personal goal is to dismantle the myth of the “good ole boy”, perpetuated by an elite network that has hijacked the true spirit of Texas. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a larger movement aimed at restoring the genuine values of fairness and integrity that will guide our state in this new, post-pandemic world. While this movement may not yet have a name, I am confident that others will join me in refocusing on what truly matters—the Heart of Texas.

Through all of our efforts, we can seek to create meaningful change and honor the legacy of those who have paved the way for a just and equitable Texas. It is my hope that by drawing on the courage and principles of my ancestor, I can work together with others to build a better future for all Texans.

Attorney Jodi Cole comforts her client, Bernhardt Tiede, during his resentencing hearing in East Texas, highlighting the emotional toll of the complex legal battle. (2016)