Between stress awareness, minority health, and move more month, a lot was going on in the 1M4 streets. So if we overwhelmed you with reminders, guess what?
We don’t feel no kinda way. At all times, you and your circle are our #1 priority. As a public safety organization geared towards protecting and uplifting the Black community, we want to make sure that you have the resources and knowledge you need so that you’ll always know how to protect yourself — mentally and physically.
And while we hope these reminders to monitor and prioritize your health support you in staying proactive, we also know that sometimes, life be life-ing and things don’t unfold the way we plan. Sometimes, the stress creeps up and our body thinks and moves in ways out of our control. And before you know it, a mental or behavioral health crisis can occur. It happens. And when it does, it can be scary and disorienting to experience. Whether it’s happening to you or someone you love.
Which is why, in these moments, getting the right support is everything. So if you haven’t already, make sure to bookmark The Right Response. As a directory to mobile crisis units in your area, The Right Response ensures that you don’t have to rely on 911 as your first call. Instead, you can feel confident in being connected to trained mental health professionals who can help de-escalate the situation, provide the support you need, and increase your chances of making it out of that moment alive, safe, and ready to heal.
“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.”
— Bell Hooks, poet and activist
Sozosei Summit Spotlight
We are still in the afterglow of the Sozosei Foundation Summit 2024. We continue to connect with advocates, partners, funders, and people who are committed to decriminalizing mental illness. Will you join us at next year’s summit?
Case Update On: Xzavier Hill
Join us next Thursday, May 9th, as we stand in support of Latoya Benton’s fight for accountability in the murder of her son, Xzavier.
Wear all Black or your 1M4 T-shirt and join us at the Richmond, VA Courthouse at 8:45am.
And before you head there, take a glimpse into a few memories of Xzavier with his mom, Latoya, here:
Legislation to Watch
Mississippi police unconstitutionally jailed people for unpaid fines, Justice Dept. says
The US Department of Justice is investigating Lexington, Mississippi’s police department for unconstitutional policies and practices.
What do you think it would take to get them to investigate other cities across the country? Are there any specific cities that you want investigated? Hit reply and let us know which ones.
Article of the Week
Check out what we’re reading and make sure to hit reply and tell us your thoughts!
Mother of Mentally Ill Ohio Man Killed by Police Turns Grief Into Advocacy
Not only are we re-reading this article by Capital B News, but we are also quoted in it. Check it out and share with your network.
A Mental Health Tip For You!
Our minds are so powerful. They have the power to change the world but they also have the power to shut. us. down. Never underestimate that. So if you experience anxiety, depression, or high levels of stress, be sure to monitor your mind and your body.
While there aren’t always signs of an impending mental health or behavioral health crisis, sometimes things like increased fidgeting, intrusive thoughts, lack of appetite, hopelessness, or even panic attacks can be clear signs from your mind and body that you need extra support. Don’t ignore it.
Be proactive and speak to a mental health professional about what’s been happening and make sure you lean on someone you can trust within your circle to check in with you from time to time. Even when you feel like you’re in this alone, remember, you never are.
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.
A mental health or behavioral health crisis can happen at any moment. And for those experiencing it and those witnessing it, it can feel like such a helpless and overwhelming situation.
And while 911 has its place, law enforcement is not always trained or versed in understanding how to handle these nuanced situations. Because of that, there will always be the threat of violence when involving them.
So to increase your safety and the safety of those we love, we’re asking you to spread the word and bookmark the Right Response directory. Do it today so that you don’t have to worry about it tomorrow. And best believe we’ll be right here reminding you every chance we get.
Because, baby, we don’t play about you.
Your Sistas In ALL Of This,
The Ladies of 1M4
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.
