Honoring Sonya Massey and Protecting Black Women
The tragic death of Sonya Massey, a vibrant 36-year-old Black woman, has once again brought to the forefront the systemic failures and injustices that plague our society. Shot by police in Illinois, Sonya's untimely death is a heartbreaking reminder of the pervasive and deadly consequences of police brutality, especially against Black women.
Sonya Massey was more than just a name in the headlines. She was a beloved member of her community, a daughter, a friend, and a beacon of light for those who knew her. Her life was tragically cut short, and as we mourn her loss, we must also reflect on the broader implications of her death. We must confront the harsh reality that Black women in this country have historically been, and continue to be, undervalued, overlooked, and subjected to violence.
A History of Neglect and Injustice
The history of neglect and injustice in this country is marred by its treatment of Black women. From the times of slavery to the present day, Black women have faced unimaginable hardships. During slavery, Black women were subjected to the horrors of forced labor, sexual violence, and the separation of families. Yet, the end of slavery did not bring an end to their suffering.
Throughout history, Black women have been at the forefront of countless struggles for equality and justice. They were key figures in the Civil Rights Movement, with leaders like Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Ella Baker fighting tirelessly for racial equality. In the fight for women's rights, figures like Sojourner Truth and Ida B. Wells spoke out against both racial and gender injustices. Despite their relentless contributions, their cries for help have often gone unheard.
Even today, Black women face disproportionate challenges, including the highest maternal mortality rates in the United States. According to the CDC, the maternal mortality rate for Black women in 2022 was 49.5 deaths per 100,000 live births, significantly higher than the rates for White (19.0), Hispanic (16.9), and Asian (13.2) women. This rate also varies by age group, with 14.4 deaths per 100,000 live births for women under 25, 21.1 for women ages 25–39, and 87.1 for women age 40 and older. Systemic racism in healthcare leads to inadequate pain management and poor treatment outcomes, with the medical field having a long history of disregarding the pain of Black women—a legacy stemming from harmful myths perpetuated during slavery and beyond. These issues are compounded by the daily experiences of racism and sexism that Black women endure, making their journey even more arduous.
Black women have stood at the frontlines of movements against police brutality. They have advocated for justice for countless victims, including Breonna Taylor and Sandra Bland, while often being the least protected themselves. Additionally, Black women have been pivotal in supporting education and work equality, fighting for the rights of people who identify within the LGBTQIA community, and championing a myriad of social justice causes. Despite their relentless advocacy and leadership in these areas, Black women continue to face significant challenges and threats to their safety and well-being.
Moreover, the alarming number of Black women who go missing each year, often with little to no media coverage, highlights another facet of systemic neglect. Their disappearances frequently go unreported, and their families are left without answers or support. According to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and U.S. Census Bureau, Black women and girls account for about 18% of all missing persons cases in the United States. In 2022, more than 546,000 people were reported missing, including nearly 98,000 Black women and girls. On average, cases involving Black women remain open four times longer than other cases. This lack of attention and urgency in addressing these cases underscores the broader societal disregard for Black women's lives and safety.
The Tragic Death of Sonya Massey
On a fateful day, Deputy Sean Grayson responded to a call at Sonya Massey's home. Reports suggest that Sonya sought support due to reports of an intruder, while other reports indicated that she was experiencing a mental health crisis. Instead of receiving the compassionate care she needed, she was met with aggression and violence. Upon entering her home, Deputy Grayson immediately addressed her mental state, a clear indication that he was aware of her vulnerable condition.
The encounter quickly escalated, leading to Sonya being shot and killed. In her final moments, Sonya said, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." In response, Grayson shouted, "You better fking not or, I swear to God I’ll fking shoot you in the f**king face." In a moment of seeking divine protection, Sonya faced brutality. Her words were not threatening; they were a call for help and protection in the face of danger. His response was a prime example of hearing but not seeing someone as a human being. Grayson did not see this Black woman as a human; his bias was present the minute he rang her doorbell. Whether he knew her or not, he had complete power and control over the situation and used it in the worst way. Not only did he steal the life of this young woman, but he also set society back even further. The continuous vicarious trauma placed upon Black communities perpetuates the reality of not trusting law enforcement to protect us.
In the aftermath, Deputy Grayson was overheard making a dehumanizing remark, calling her "a crazy...". Such harmful language not only disrespects Sonya's memory but also perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health. This statement uttered in the immediate aftermath of her death, reveals a deep-seated bias and a lack of understanding and compassion for those living with mental health challenges.
Stigma and Mental Health
The stigma surrounding mental health is a significant barrier to individuals seeking and receiving appropriate care. When law enforcement officers respond to mental health crises with violence instead of support, it reinforces harmful stereotypes and discourages others from seeking help. Sonya Massey's death is a painful example of how this stigma can have deadly consequences.
The deputy's words reflect a broader societal issue where individuals with mental health challenges are often labeled and dismissed rather than understood and supported. This incident highlights the urgent need for better training for law enforcement officers in handling mental health crises and for a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health. Additionally, there is a need for stringent screening requirements for those seeking a career in law enforcement, potentially including conversations around racism and bias.
Empowering and Protecting Black Women
In honor of Sonya Massey, we must reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that drive our work at Sondercove. Peer support is rooted in empathy, respect, and the belief in the inherent worth of every individual. We must extend these principles to our broader fight for justice. Empowering Black women means listening to their stories, valuing their experiences, and standing with them in solidarity. It means creating spaces where their voices are amplified, and their needs are prioritized.
We must also address the systemic issues that perpetuate violence against Black women. This includes advocating for comprehensive police reform, supporting community-based safety initiatives, and investing in mental health and wellness services that are accessible and culturally sensitive. At Sondercove, we are committed to fostering a community where every individual, especially those from marginalized and underrepresented groups, can find support, healing, and empowerment.
A Message to Black Women
Black women, if you are reading this, know that you are powerful beyond measure. You deserve to be seen, heard and celebrated. Hold your head high and wear your crown with pride. You are the embodiment of love, joy, and strength. Your resilience is unmatched, your spirit unbreakable, and your worth beyond measure. In the face of adversity, you have continued to rise, to fight, and to thrive. We see you, we honor you, and we stand with you in this relentless pursuit of justice and equality. You are the heartbeat of our communities, the warriors of our times, and the hope for our future. Never forget your power, beauty, and invaluable contribution to this world. Together, we will continue to fight, uplift, and build a future where your light shines brightest.
A Call to Action
The death of Sonya Massey should not be in vain. It should catalyze change, urging us all to take action to protect Black women and to hold accountable those who perpetrate violence against them. We must stand together in our grief and our outrage and channel these emotions into meaningful action.
Let us honor Sonya Massey's life by continuing to fight for justice, by supporting Black women in every capacity, and by working tirelessly to build a society that truly values and protects its most vulnerable members. In doing so, we can create a future where tragedies like Sonya's are no longer a devastating reality but a painful memory of a past we have overcome.
