As a mama or mother figure, your schedule is jam-packed with putting others in your household, family, and community first. You’re rarely (if ever) slowing down to check in on yourself.
But Sis, if you’re not gonna take care of yourself, tell us something: who is? Because we’ll tell you this. Most times, it ain’t the healthcare system.
Oh yes, we did 😌. And before we go any further, let us also say this: we’ve got nothing but love for our health care professionals. There are some phenomenal paramedics, nurses, doctors, and so much more out there. But we also know the statistics. Here are some to consider:
-
“One in five women feel their doctor has ignored or dismissed their symptoms.”
-
“About 20% of women reported mistreatment while receiving maternity care.”
-
“Women receive a later diagnosis … than men, making preventable diseases much more lethal.”
But that’s not all. This info is especially troubling considering that:
-
Women spend 25% more of their lives in debilitating health than men
-
Women are 3x more likely to die from a serious heart attack than men (it’s the #1 killer amongst women!)
And when we zoom into our fellow Black Sistas? The stats get worse.
-
Black women are 3x more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes from their white counterparts
-
Black women are at a heightened risk to develop aggressive breast cancer
Why are these stats and info so outlandish? Because gender inequality (especially amongst marginalized communities) is still rampant within healthcare and healthcare research. Consciously and subconsciously.
And just so you know, we share all of this not to scare you but to empower you. Not everyone is looking out for you and no one can look out for you the way you can. So it’s important that you prioritize your health the same way you’d prioritize your kids or ya mama.
“When women take care of their health, they become their own best friend.”
— Maya Angelou
Sista Spotlight
Our Founder, Tansy, attended the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention Announcement Reception this week sponsored by SAMSHA, NAMI, and others.
We are in these rooms to make sure the Black community is included. It was nice to reconnect in person with so many people we have worked with virtually over the years.
Case Update On: Terence Richardson and Ferrone Claiborne
Join us in court this Wednesday in Sussex County, Virginia at 9am with Terence Richardson and his legal team as they work to provide evidence of his innocence before judges.
It is so important that these judges and the court systems know that we have not forgotten about this injustice or the lives of these men.
Meet us there. Details in the flyer below
Legislators to Watch
This week a sitting Representative disrespected another by negatively talking about her appearance. In a House committee meeting. The Representative receiving the disparaging remarks responded. 🤷🏽♀️
To be clear, you shouldn’t be able to talk sideways to someone in any setting and then tell them (AND EXPECT them) to “calm down”.
Sharing the clip below for you to determine who you think was out of order (quite literally).
And please vote in every election.
Article of the Week
Check out what we’re reading and make sure to hit reply and tell us your thoughts!
A West Side Story: How to Traumatize a Community
A Physical Health Tip For You!
Black women, we’re at risk for a lot. But one thing high up on our list? Heart disease. It affects 1 in 3 Americans and those odds increase when it comes to you. This is why it’s important that you take preventative action to keep your heart happy and healthy. New to this heart-health game? Here are 6 ways to give your heart the support it needs:
1. Stay moving
2. Eat healthy
3. Watch your weight
4. Manage your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels
5. Prevent or adequately care for diabetes
6. Check yo’ stress
Now don’t only live by these rules! Of course, be sure to check with your doctor for any specific habits that are necessary for your health. But these suggestions serve as a great way to support your heart and overall health!
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.
Like we said. We’re not here to scare you but empower you. There’s so much you want to get done and your body is ready to support you — but first you’ve gotta meet it half way. So use this knowledge to look out for yourself.
Schedule that mammogram. Do those cervical cancer screenings. Take the release the pressure pledge. Check-in with your doc when things don’t feel right. Advocate and apply the pressure when you don’t feel heard. Get some back up when you need it.
Do what you have to do to feel alive and well. Because this world needs you. Your community needs you. Your family needs you. We need you. You need you.
Your Sistas In ALL Of This,
The Ladies of 1M4
25 Years Too Long
Join us in court this Wednesday in Sussex County Virginia at 9am with Terence Richardson and his legal team as they work to provide evidence of his innocence before judges.
Excited to Rep 1M4?
We’re excited, too! The 1M4 merch will go on presale this month so keep an eye on your inbox — you already know we’re telling you first.
Mississippi Sistas + Allies: Come for the Vibe. Stay for the Sisterhood.
Join us in Brandon, MS on May 25th as we handout information about The Right Response and have local signups to join 1M4 Mississippi. Come meet 1M4 Board member, Laurie, and other 1M4 members in your area!
1M4 Was Featured on Broadcast Television!
(Thank you so much for all of your help and diligence!)
Miles Hall Foundation Group Therapy program
(CALIFORNIA based subscribers only)
The Miles Hall Foundation’s subsidized therapy program is for those in the BIPOC community who have experienced trauma and harm due to police violence, racism, and inadequate mental health resources. Applications are now being accepted for the May 2024 pilot of this new and innovative program. For more information and to apply, click the link below.
Become A Gatekeeper
The Confess Project is hosting multi-city and virtual trainings on how to become mental health advocates in our local communities. These trainings will equip everyday people to use their voices to improve access to mental health care.
