about our name and logo

"Texas After Violence" is a descriptive name: we ask people who have been directly affected by violence to tell us their stories. "After violence" also expresses a utopian desire for a world unmarred by violence and the conditions that give rise to violence.

A mockingbird, poised for flight, perches on an olive wreath. The olive branch represents peace. The "state bird of Texas" reminds us of the natural beauty -- and potential for greater beauty -- of the place we call home. The mockingbird's unique song is a medley of the calls and voices of neighboring birds. It's a song made possible by careful listening.

Walter Long, founder and friend of the Texas After Violence Project, contributed his original drawing of a mockingbird in the olive wreath.

J.J. Campbell of Rural Rooster modified the drawing slightly, simplifying the lines so that it would be more effective as a logo.

Designing this website, J.J. incorporated the logo and extended the olive branches across the top of the page. Kenyatta Y. Dawson and our friends at American Printing and Mailing incorporated these elements into the materials they have produced for us, as well.