The People’s Voice
Juneteenth and the Long Walk to Liberation
Honoring History, Moving Forward
Vol 3: 2025
Director’s Corner
Autumn Butler - Executive Director
autumn@mioaklandforward.org
Black Women and Mental Health Awareness
Black women, often at the intersection of race and gender, face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. These challenges are compounded by societal expectations, stereotypes, and the ongoing effects of systemic oppression. The disparities in mental health care and outcomes for Black women are alarming, with historical trauma, economic inequality, and racism creating compounded stress. Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to reflect on these specific barriers and the importance of addressing the mental health needs of Black women. It’s essential to recognize not only the personal impacts, but also the systemic factors that contribute to their mental health struggles.
The intersection of race and gender creates a complex landscape for Black women’s mental health, one that requires more than just individual care—it requires systemic change. Addressing mental health disparities for Black women requires dismantling the systems of racism and sexism that contribute to their struggles. It also calls for a holistic approach to healing, one that includes culturally competent care, community support, and policy reforms that ensure equitable access to mental health resources. By acknowledging the intersection of oppression, Oakland Forward can better support the mental well-being of Black women and work toward an environment where they can thrive without the burdens imposed by systemic injustice.
Five ways we can fight to ensure that everyone, especially those most impacted, have access to quality mental healthcare: Culturally Competent Care, Community Support, Self-care and Boundaries, Addressing Systemic Oppression, and Normalizing Mental Health Conversations.
Announcements
Neighborhood Leadership Academy Development Has Officially Started!
We’re excited to share that development for Oakland Forward’s next Neighborhood Leadership Academy is officially underway!
As caregivers, parents, and everyday leaders continue to show up for their communities, we’re building a space designed just for them — a place to grow skills, deepen relationships, and organize for lasting change.
From curriculum design to community outreach, every detail is being shaped with intention — to reflect the power and brilliance already alive in our neighborhoods.
This is more than a program — it’s a movement. And it starts now.
Organizer’s Take
David Stimage - Organizing Manager
david@mioaklandforward.org
Supporting your child's mental health starts at home. As caregivers, there are everyday steps we can take to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and equipped to handle life’s challenges. Here are five practical ways to promote mental well-being for your child:
1. Establish Consistent Routines:
Help your child develop a stable daily routine that includes time for homework, extracurricular activities, relaxation, and family interactions. Routines can provide a sense of security and predictability, which are essential for mental well-being.
2. Encourage Open Communication:
Create an environment where your child feels safe expressing their feelings and concerns. Regularly check in and ask open-ended questions about their day and feelings.
3. Promote Healthy Habits:
Ensure your child gets adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, as these factors significantly contribute to mental health.
4. Foster Problem-Solving Skills:
Teach your child how to manage stress by discussing potential solutions to problems they might face, whether academic or social.
5. Be Involved in School Life:
Attend parent-teacher meetings and participate in school activities to stay informed about your child's environment and identify any issues early on.
We Did That
April - May 2025
· Oakland Forward at Black Voters Matter Capitol Day because We Won't Back Down and It's About Us.
Black Voters Matters lobby day
· Oakland Forward joined Michigan United for a powerful Lobby Day at the Capitol — it's time to FIGHT back! Big shout out to our staff and super leaders, Sonya Malone and Thomas Lawrence, for showing up and showing out!
Michigan United lobby day
Michigan Education Justice Coalition lobby day
Oakland Forward joins Michigan Education Justice Coalition for their Lobby Day in Lansing. Partner organizations throughout the state advocated for an increase in public school funding.
· Community members and panelists gather for a powerful discussion on housing justice, sharing concerns, solutions, and a vision for a more equitable Pontiac.
Community Conversation on Housing
· Parents, educators, caregivers, and community leaders came together to explore real solutions for Pontiac’s schools—uplifting the voices of those most impacted and working toward a stronger, more equitable future for our students.
Community Conversation on Education
Collaboration with the Michigan Education Justice Coalition (MEJC
· The Oakland Forward Action Fund, in collaboration with the Michigan Education Justice Coalition (MEJC), held a press conference at the office of Congressional Representative Haley Stevens. We stand with MEJC as they deliver a letter of support and encouragement to Rep. Stevens, urging her to continue fighting for equitable funding for all children and to oppose cuts to the Department of Education.
· Oakland Forward is so proud of Our Own Wall Street and Black Voters Matter for hosting a warrant clinic in Detroit. 184 people were able to have a fresh start. #Liberation
Warrant Clinic in Detroit
Family Group Chat
May 14, 2025 – Education Action Team & NLA #5 Kick-off & Orientation (5:00 PM – 7:30 PM)
May 26, 2025 - Stomp Out Violence with Identify Your Dream