Sis, we know Labor Day came and went in a flash, and just like that, August is over. Now we step into September, closing out the summer and gearing up for what’s ahead.
At 1M4, we’re calling this month Shield September—a time to strengthen our communities, protect our loved ones, and expand our collective shield of care.
Under this current administration, cities like D.C. are already seeing increased law enforcement presence, and we know more communities may follow.
That makes it even more urgent for us to equip ourselves and one another with the right tools—from discounted legal representation to Sista Check-Ins.
Our goal is bold but simple: 4,000 new members by the end of the year. That’s 4,000 more Sistas shielded with knowledge, resources, and the power of The Right Response.
September is also Suicide Prevention Month, and tomorrow, on September 8th, we honor 988 Day. This year’s theme is Start a Conversation. Be the Difference. We invite you to use your voice, share resources, and remind the people in your life that they are not alone. Learn more here.
Every person who joins us helps protect another family, neighborhood, and village. Because when we shield each other, we all stand stronger.
“The woman who doesn’t require validation from anyone is the most feared individual on the planet.”
— Mohadesa Najumi
What We’re Reading
Former police investigator Mac Muir calls American policing a system built on “everyday injustice,” not just isolated brutality. In his new book “Cop Cop,” Muir draws from years of investigating misconduct in New York and Oakland to show how routine stops, surveillance, and structural incentives fuel harm in Black and brown communities. He argues that true reform requires expanding community-based alternatives beyond traditional policing.
Support Xzavier Hill’s Family
On September 23, a petition will be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of Xzavier’s wrongful death at the hands of Virginia State Police. This filing directly challenges qualified immunity and calls for real justice and accountability in policing.
You can take action by showing up in D.C. on filing day **See rsvp link under Upcoming Events section** or by submitting a Letter of Support. Your words will help the Court understand how deeply Xzavier’s unjust death and the deaths of so many others affect our communities.
Your Expertise is Needed!
We’re completely revamping The Right Response Directory and need your input to ensure it meets our community’s needs.
This critical resource connects you to alternative first-response programs offering compassionate support through peer responders, clinicians, and trained EMTs for calls like welfare checks, noise complaints, traffic incidents, and mental health crises.
Your feedback is vital for us to improve. Please take a few minutes to complete our confidential survey. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
A Mental Health Tip For You
Did you know September is also Self-Care Awareness Month? This is a reminder that caring for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s essential. This month, make space for small acts of restoration: take a walk without your phone, journal your feelings, set healthy boundaries, or simply pause to breathe deeply.
When we nurture ourselves, we’re better able to show up for our loved ones and our communities.
✨ Tip: Choose one self-care practice to focus on each week this month. By the end of September, you’ll have built a toolkit of ways to recharge and shield your wellness.
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.
This Shield September, let’s set the tone for the rest of the month together. Every new member brings more families under the shield of safety and care. Whether it’s through our tools, check-ins, or legal protections, your support helps our communities stand stronger.
Help us reach our goal of 4,000 new members and join today. Invite a friend and spread the word in your circles. Together, we can fortify our shield and make sure every community has the knowledge and resources they need.
We are committed to covering 4000 families in our lifesaving resources by the end of this year. Join 1M4’s private membership community today and shield the village closest to you.
Let’s do this! Shields up!
Mark your calendars for Monday Sept. 22nd at 7pm ET. We’re hosting a special workshop led by our very own Ebony James entitled Burnout Starts Quiet: How to Catch it Before it Catches You. This Self Care Awareness Month we’re equipping you to protect your wellness through actional strategies. No fluff, all facts around here. Let’s talk about the real.
Registration is complimentary but required in advance. Share with a friend who needs this space.
On Tuesday September 23, 2025, an important Supreme Court filing will be made on behalf of Xzavier Hill in Washington DC. This marks a powerful step in the fight for justice, challenging the limits of qualified immunity and uplifting the right to be heard, even when representing oneself (pro se).
This filing is about so much more than one case — it’s about accountability, access to justice, and shedding light on the barriers everyday people face in the legal system. Your presence can help amplify this crucial moment.
If you’re able to attend the filing in Washington DC, please fill out the form below. Also advise the team…
* If you need transportation (especially from VA, MD, or DC)
* If you’d like to join the luncheon afterward
The luncheon will cover:
 The filing itself
 What it means to file pro se
 A deeper conversation on qualified immunity
Please RSVP by **September 12th** so adequate plans can be made
Let’s come together to support Xzavier and push back against systems that deny justice. Your presence matters.
In August and beyond, help raise awareness of alternatives to police for mental health emergencies. Share the Right Response directory with your local community, snap a few pictures, and let us know about it. We would love to highlight you and your advocacy in our newsletter and social media pages. Share your advocacy results HERE. Whether you shared with two people or 200 people, each life matters.
We are celebrating you as the trusted voice in your community!
Any questions? Simply hit “reply.”
Ready to join in shielding your community? Click HERE
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. Â
