Nationwide — DefendRILEY, the self-defense and personal safety initiative founded by decorated U.S. Army Captain (Veteran) Raquel Riley Thomas, proudly announces acclaimed actress Tamala Jones as its official Ambassador. Jones, known for her powerful performances across film, television, and narration, will help amplify DefendRILEY’s nationwide mission to empower women and girls through self-defense education, advocacy, and community support.
DefendRILEY was created after Raquel Riley Thomas experienced profound personal loss. Following the 2013 passing of her mother, M. Riley, Raquel discovered that her mother had been a survivor of assault. Having faced similar trauma herself, she transformed her grief into purpose and launched DefendRILEY to ensure women and girls have the tools and confidence to protect themselves.
Today, Raquel practices the martial arts of Taekwondo, is an active mentor, and a national martial arts instructor-in-training. She is now preparing to transition DefendRILEY into a nonprofit that will broaden access to lifesaving self-defense education.
“I started DefendRILEY because of my mother, M. Riley. I can’t change her past, but I can honor her by helping women and children protect their present, and fight for a safer future,” said Raquel Riley Thomas, Founder of DefendRILEY.
As Ambassador, Tamala Jones will support the initiative’s national visibility, legislative advocacy, and community outreach. Her wide-ranging career includes standout roles in The Wood, The Brothers, Two Can Play That Game, Kingdom Come, ABC’s Castle, 9-1-1: Lone Star, Rebel, the feature film Ordinary Angels, narration of Sarah’s Oil, and her recent appearance in the holiday movie #WorstChristmasEver.
“I’m joining DefendRILEY because I’m tired of seeing women and girls unprotected. We deserve strength, confidence, and real tools to defend ourselves. The ‘damsel in distress’ is cancelled. It’s time to take action,” said Jones.
Mission Statement
DefendRILEY empowers women and girls through hands-on self-defense training, personal safety education, and confidence-building strategies. The initiative equips individuals with the skills to fight back, stand strong, and stay safe.
Call to Action
DefendRILEY is advocating legislation requiring:
• Self-defense electives in all colleges
• Mandatory self-defense training in middle and high schools
Supporters can help by:
• Signing the Change.org petition
• Sharing personal stories
• Joining the DefendRILEY advocacy network
Follow Raquel Riley Thomas on Instagram @raquelrileythomas
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