The HealthConnect One team mourns the loss of Black grandmas, uncles, dads, sisters, and moms, at the hands of White supremacy in Buffalo on Sunday.
In a country where growing theories and hate target the joy of Black birth, our team remains focused and strengthened to continue our work. The preservation and survival of Black life, joy, families, and communities, is the core of our work.
As we continue to work towards ensuring Black people can give birth safely and future generations of Black communities can thrive, we hope our legislators take action to address domestic terrorism and our allies and have deep conversations about the threat of White supremacy.
Today, say the names of the people who were murdered. Hold their memories as we dream, hope, and organize for a reformed country, and remember Black folks in Buffalo who have lost another supermarket now creating a food desert.
SAY THEIR NAMES
Aaron Salter, 55; Ruth Whitfield, 86; Katherine “Kat” Massey, 72; Pearly Young, 77; Heyward Patterson, 67; Celestine Chaney, 65; Roberta Drury, 32; Margus D. Morrison, 52; Andre Mackneil, 53; Geraldine Talley, 62.
You can support local organizations in Buffalo by providing food relief for Black folks during this time: @feedbuffalo @buffalocommunityfridge @feedmorewny.
For Black colleagues, partners, and networks, please visit beam.community for mental health resources as we process this horrific event.
As we battle with and strategize against White supremacy, please use this Self-Check In Tool from BEAM.
How Am I? A Self Check-in
Mental – What are my thoughts right now? How are they impacting me? What fear of how folks will perceive me is getting in the way of asking for the help I need?
Physical – Am I hungry? Am I tired? Am I in pain? What am I feeling in my body and where? What is/are the message(s) my body is sending me about my needs?
Emotional – What am I feeling? What helps me to feel resourced and grounded before taking on something that requires more of me?