“All that you touch, you change. All that you change, changes you.” — Octavia Butler
Black women, April is for us.
This first Sunday carries the spirit of Easter for those who celebrate, the start of a new month, and a moment to reflect on what it means to be held, renewed, and seen.
During International Black Women’s History Month, we honor our legacy and the love that Black women around the world have carried across generations. But it’s also a time to recognize ourselves not just for what we do, but for who we are.
To be Black and a woman in this world is a unique experience. To carry both the weight and the blessings of it all is no easy journey.
And still, we are the beauty and the joy of our communities. The ones who rise, reshape, and remake the world around us, even in spaces never built with us in mind.
We are everything, all at once. And that deserves to be honored.
At 1M4, we know this truth deeply: Black women are the foundation of this community. We are the ones checking in, holding space, creating safety, and building something bigger than ourselves.
Even when this labor feels invisible, it is not unnoticed. And now, something is shifting…
The weather is getting warmer. The days are stretching longer. After months of cold, gray skies, we’re finally stepping back into sunlight, literally and emotionally.
For a lot of us, that also means coming out of that seasonal slump and that heaviness we couldn’t quite name. But this season? It invites us to soften back into ourselves.
To take that walk.
To sit in the sun for a few extra minutes.
To let fresh air hit our faces and remind us that we’re still here.
April is also African American Women’s Fitness Month and Minority Health Month, and we want to expand what “fitness” and “health” mean for us.
Yes, your physical well-being matters. But your mental health is also essential.
It’s the quiet check-in before you say “yes” when you mean “no.”
It’s choosing rest without guilt.
It’s giving yourself permission to move slower as you find your rhythm again.
Because too often, Black women are expected to keep showing up, no matter the cost.
But what if this month, we did things differently? What if we honored our strength by also honoring our limits?
We’re inviting you to take up space in your own care. To move in ways that feel good, protect your peace, lean into community—not just as someone who gives, but as someone who deserves to receive.
Because at 1M4, care goes both ways.
So whether today feels like a celebration, reflection, or simply a moment to breathe, take it. We’re grateful for you, and we love you.
Your Sistas Through It All,
The Ladies of 1M4
A mental health tip for you
National Poetry Month is here, so keep an eye out as we share beautiful poems from our 1M4 members across our socials.
But this isn’t just about reading others’ words. Your voice is powerful, and putting your thoughts on paper can be healing.
Whether it’s a short haiku, a thoughtful verse, or just a few lines in your journal, take a moment to use your words. You don’t have to say them out loud. Just letting them out can be transformative.
Got a piece you’d like to share? We’d love to feature your poetry! Send us your work by emailing info@1M4.org to be featured across our social channels.
And if you’re looking for additional support, explore our 1M4 Black Mental Wellness Resource Guide for trusted tools and support resources to help you care for your mental well-being.
In Loving Memory of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen
Coral Springs City Commission
Let’s take a moment to remember and honor the life and legacy of Nancy Metayer Bowen, Vice Mayor of Coral Springs, Florida, who passed away earlier this week. Nancy dedicated herself to her community with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making Coral Springs a safer and healthier place for all.
As the first Black and Haitian American female commissioner in the city, Nancy broke barriers and inspired others through her service. From responding to hurricanes as an environmental scientist to serving on the city commission and as vice mayor, she approached every challenge with determination and care, leaving a lasting impact on the city she loved.
Though her life was tragically cut short, her contributions and dedication live on. We honor her memory, celebrate her leadership, and hold space for the community she served so faithfully.
Spread Some Blessings!
The consequences of police violence extend far beyond the loss of life. For families affected, it’s the loss of income, the sacrifice of basic necessities, and the start of a high-cost legal fight. If you have the capacity, consider donating to 1M4. Proceeds help support impacted families and sustain the work of 1M4 toward ending police violence for good.
To make sure our community has the tools to stay safe and support each other, our Founder, Tansy, holds weekly office hours to answer questions and walk members through 1M4’s safety resources.
No registration needed. Just join 1M4 via the button below, then hop into our online convos at 12 PM ET every Tuesday.
Got a pressing question? Send an email to info@1m4.org, and we’ll get back to you before the next session.
Ok so… we’re on TikTok now! Follow, engage, and rep 1M4 over there. We’re doing our best to reach the people.
Help some Sistas out!
You Got Your 1M4 Merch Yet?
Visit the 1M4 merch store to make sure you’re representing at court support, protests, or in line at your favorite coffee spot. We want to see YOU in your 1M4 gear. Every purchase goes directly to funding the work of 1M4 increasing access to safety and wellness.
