If you wouldn’t say it to someone you love, why would you say it yourself?

Sometimes, we can be our own worst critics, fixating on insecurities and saying mean things to ourselves that just aren’t true. As we continue to focus on healing during Suicide Prevention Month, let’s be more mindful of the words we use.

Research shows that positive thinking and affirmations can actually rewire our brains over time, improving our confidence and mental health over time. So, when that inner voice gets loud and negative, remember that it’s not a true reflection of reality.

As Black people, we already face enough negativity from the world, so let’s make sure we’re kind to ourselves. If you need support or a personal hype squad, don’t hesitate to lean on our 1M4 community. You can also check out our Suicide Prevention Resource List and last year’s Sista Check-In recording to guide you through it.

    “Cause the words that come from your mouth, you’re the first to hear. Speak words of beauty and you will be there.”
    — India Arie

    Sista Spotlight

    In our community, we team up when needed.

    But don’t get it twisted; our Sistas are out there changing lives on their own.

    Today, get to know one of our Sistas and see how she inspires us!

    Laurie Walker Hill

    Today, we’re celebrating our 1M4 Board Member, Laurie Walker Hill, who won Best Music Video at the 2024 JXN Film Festival! In her directorial debut, Laurie and her team took home the top spot for their outstanding work.

     

    Watch the award-winning video here.

    Case Update On Marlon Howell

    Be sure to check out the docu-series “It Couldn’t Happen Here,” which sheds light on Marlon Howell’s story. It’s available on Amazon Prime, Roku, and YouTube Premium.

    Watch the trailer here.

    Call to Action: Court Support for Timothy McCree Johnson

    Join us tomorrow, Monday Sept. 23rd at 9:45am EST in Fairfax County Virginia to stand in solidarity with the family of Timothy who was killed by an officer in February of 2023.

    Injustice happens daily in empty courtrooms. Come see how our legal system actually operates and let this family know you care.

    Address: 4110 Chain Bridge Road Fairfax, VA

    Learn more about Timothy’s case here. Share about his story and need for court support  here

    Article of the Week

     

    Read the Department of Justice press release for more details on the investigation into the Phoenix Police Department.

    The DOJ found “…a pattern or practice of conduct that violates the U.S. Constitution and federal law…”

    Mmhmm… yep we know.

    A Mental Health Tip For You!

    Words of affirmation hold a lot of power, so start your day with a little self-love. Each morning, pick a few positive things to say to yourself while you’re getting ready, looking in the mirror, driving the kids to school, or just going about your day.  

    It might feel a bit awkward at first, but over time, hearing these positive phrases can help shift your mindset. Think of it as giving yourself a daily pep talk!

    If it helps, you can also journal about all the things you love about yourself and revisit these notes whenever you’re feeling down. There are so many things that make you special, and we’re here to remind you of them.❤️

      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.

      Chile life be turning us any which way but loose!😂 The house always needs cleaning, bills need to be paid, and here come your kids with yet another request. It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle, but let’s take a moment to slow down.

      This month isn’t just about Suicide Prevention Month; it’s also Self-Care Awareness Month, which is a time to focus on the importance of pouring into yourself.

      So, carve out some time for a break and enjoy some well-deserved “me time.” As you make space for these moments, count on us to share some more ways to practice self-care this month and the rest of the year.

      Your Sistas In ALL Of This,
      The Ladies of 1M4

      You Got Your 1M4 Merch Yet?

      Visit the 1M4 merch store to make sure you’re stepping out with style and advocacy. All sales help support and fund the work of 1M4.

      Be sure to tag us when you rep the gear! @1M4

      Listen to 1M4 being discussed on She The People podcast

      Last week She The People podcast highlighted the work of 1M4 and the importance of The Right Response directory.

      Tap in on your morning drive or as you relax at the end of the day. Search “She the People” on your favorite podcast platform.

      Share with your friends!

      The Mental Health Literacy Collaborative (MHLC) has officially launched its MHL Aware Certification Training. 

      Mental Health Literacy (MHL) Aware is a 60-minute training (with an optional certification) that benefits professional, personal, and community needs for knowledge, language, and confidence around the topic of mental health. This training is the first step in guiding people to successfully integrate MHL into the fabric of their community. The Aware training focuses on educating individuals about 1) What MHL is, 2) Why it is beneficial, and 3) How they can bring this information to their community. In addition to these core focus areas, the training provides basic, real-world application strategies. The cost is $30 per person for live trainings and $25 for the asynchronous course. Group rates are also available by contacting info@themhlc.org.