It’s here. May is officially the 75th anniversary of Mental Health Awareness Month. And we’ve gotta say, since its inception in 1949, we’ve done good, y’all. Like…really good.
Discussions on mental health have come a long way from the whispers in the living room, side-eye from the aunties, and judgment from the neighbors. Today, more people than ever before are seeking treatment for moderate to severe mental illnesses.
People are taking mental health days. Movies, TV shows, news articles, conferences, organizations, directories, and so much more are dedicated to starting and continuing the conversation. We’ve. made. moves.
And as we step into Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s give each other a huge pat on the back for that. Because yes, we still have a long way to go. But part of de-stigmatizing our mental health is also taking time to stop and celebrate it. Celebrate how far we’ve come and all the work we still get to do — together.
“What excited me is just taking some time to breathe in ife.”
— Viola Davis
Your Juneteenth Fit is Loading…
You have been asking and we are answering.
The 1M4 merchandise is coming back! Yep, we are re-launching our 1M4 line with new items and we welcome your support in repping 1M4 in your daily life.
Presales start later this month as we literally “gear up” (see what we did there 😉) for Juneteenth. Everything we do is to get us all closer to true freedom. Freedom in access to healthcare. Freedom from state sanctioned harm. Freedom to thrive.
Stay tuned for the presale link.
Case Update On: Xzavier Hill
Join us this Thursday, May 9th at 8:45am in Richmond, VA as we stand in solidarity with Xzavier’s Mom, Latoya.
Learn more about the case and follow their “Justice for Xzavier” page here:
Legislation to Watch
Bill to boost community crisis response teams passed in wake of police-involved shootings
This New Jersey bill passed to support community based response teams. It was named after an activist who was killed by police during a mental health crisis.
We want to avoid tragedies like this. Help us share The Right Response with your network.
Article of the Week
Check out what we’re reading and make sure to hit reply and tell us your thoughts!
A Mental Health Tip For You!
Mental Health and the Black community. Those two don’t always seem to go hand-in-hand, do they? That’s that stigma, Sis. The Black community is infamous for its disregard and stigmatization of mental health. But as we continue to move toward wider awareness, it’s important to walk with an open heart. For you and those you love.
When it comes to the grandmas, uncles, aunties, and everyone who you know you can’t talk about “that” stuff with, try changing the narrative. How can you start those conversations? We’re not saying to have a full sit down at Sunday dinner. But how can you start inviting in understanding? How can you help grandma realize what she’s been through is hard? How can you help your uncle see the weight he’s had to bear is heavy.
Doing so can be a great way to strengthen your relationship with each other, heal old wounds, and pave the way for stronger support in future generations.
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.
We’ve done a lot. Absolutely. And we won’t lie. We’ve still got a long way to go when it comes to not only de-stigmatizing mental illness but in decriminalizing it. Especially in underresourced communities.
We’ve got work to do in making this world safer for people living or struggling with a mental illness and for those looking for help from it.
But you’re not alone in doing this work. Remember, just this year, we debuted one of our biggest milestones yet. The Right Response directory. A life-saving tool borne out of the work we’ve done together. And since then, it’s been aired on national television — widening its reach and amplifying its impact.
Imagine what we’ll have done and the change we’ll have made this time next year.
Your Sistas In ALL Of This,
The Ladies of 1M4
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!)
Spotlight on Our Work
Our Founder was featured in Business Insider this week discussing why she started 1M4 and the importance of The Right Response directory.
Check out the article and share with your network. We need as many people as possible to know about The Right Response and our growing grassroots organization.
Join GirlTrek’s Spring Walking Challenge
Over the next 10 weeks we will join GirlTrek in promoting self-care for Freedom Fighters.
That’s each one of us.
We must take care of ourselves so we can not just survive but thrive in this life.
Take The Release The Pressure Pledge
With high blood pressure being an issue for nearly 80% of Black people, 1M4 is committed to doing what’s needed to protect our heart’s health and we’re asking you to do the same.
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.
Bob Marley: One Love Social Impact Scholarship
This scholarship for HBCU students supports those in community organizing, nonprofit leadership, or social justice. Deadline: April 30th
Emerging Leader Fellowship 2024 Application
“The Emerging Leaders Fellowship is a semester-long program designed for organizers building power in community organizations, labor unions, or advocacy groups.”
Deadline: May 5th
Freedom Summer ‘24
Apply to join the JULIAN organization in commemorating 60 years since the Freedom Summer. The coalition building effort for voter access, advocacy, and policy innovations will take place this summer in Mississippi. Applications accepted until May 10th on a rolling basis.
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.
