Operation Shield September is in full swing.
In cities like D.C., law enforcement presence is increasing, which means Black and Brown communities are more likely to be targeted. This makes it even more important to protect our peace, families, and neighborhoods.
Shield September is about arming ourselves with the tools, knowledge, and connections to stay safe mentally, emotionally, and physically.
This month, take care of yourself through rest, movement, or simple daily check-ins. It’s one of the most powerful ways to shield your family and community.
We also know the power of connection. 1M4 is your guide for protection: discounted legal counsel, mental health resources, Sista Check-Ins, and TONIGHT at 7pm EST a Burnout Prevention webinar and conversation. These resources help you stay informed, supported, and ready to shield those you care about.
We’re also calling on you to join us and help raise 4,000 shields across our communities in 2025.
Every new member is another protector and another voice saying, “We see you. We got you. You’re not alone.”
“If you prioritize yourself, you are going to save yourself.”
— Gabrielle Union
Tonight, Catch Burnout Before it Catches You (7pm EST)
Burnout rarely shows us all at once. Join us tonight to discover how gradual exhaustion is impacting you and develop a plan to prevent burning out.
This is an interactive session so bring your pen, paper, and be prepared to dive deep into methods for protecting your peace
Registration is free and required in advance
See you tonight at 7pm EST!
Support Xzavier Hill’s Family Tomorrow
Tomorrow at 10am, 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. tomorrw **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.
What’s On Our Minds Right Now…
[WATCH THE CLIP ABOVE]
This past week we read about and saw the news footage of a Black body found hanging from a tree in Mississippi. It disturbed us and our heart aches for the families of Trey Reed and Cory Zukatis (who was also found hanging from a tree in the same state).
Additionally we are gravely concerned about the misinformation about these tragedies shared across social media. Our Founder, Tansy, spoke about our concerns and the values that lead our organization. Check out her comments here along with other safety tips on our page
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
Boundaries, boundaries, and more boundaries…
We know that’s hard as moms, caretakers, and the ones who always save the day, but protecting your mental health starts with clear boundaries. Saying “no” to requests, conversations, or situations that drain your energy isn’t selfish.
Start small: limit social media scrolling, step away from conversations that feel toxic, or carve out dedicated time for yourself each day.
Boundaries help you maintain your peace, reduce stress, and create space to focus on what truly matters: your wellness, loved ones, and the communities you support.
Need extra support? Join us tonight at 7pm EST to meet other people committed to protecting their peace. Register HERE
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.
As September unfolds and we prepare for cooler weather, we want to check in. How’s it going? Like for real, for Real? How are you feeling? What are your hopes and dreams for yourself and your community? This month is a reminder to pause, reflect, and protect your peace as we move forward.
Whatever you’re facing, lean on your 1M4 Community. We are here for you.  Every connection you make strengthens your shield and the shields around those you love. Let’s keep building, sharing, and protecting one another.
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!
Monday Sept 22nd at 7pm EST, join us for this transformative workshop on methods and strategies to prevent burnout.
Registration is complimentary and required in advance.
Share with your circle, if you know they’re feeling stressed and heavy these days.
On Tomorrow, 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).
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.
This week, Wednesday through Sunday, meet us at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference (CBC ALC) . We’ll be onsite discussing our action plan for shielding communities and partnering with other organizations working towards decriminalizing mental illness and providing safety alternatives to police response.
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
