News

Dear YW Boston Partners and Supporters, 

Earlier this week, body cam footage was released to the public that shows the violent murder of Sonya Massey, a Black woman from Illinois who was shot in the face after calling the police to report an intruder on her property. Sonya’s loss is a deep and painful blow, not only to her family and friends but also to our community and our workplaces.  

The murder of people of color—especially Black people—by law enforcement officers is an all-too-common occurrence in this country. It’s easy to allow yourself to become numb to something that continues to happen almost daily, unchecked. But it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hurt every single time we learn that another innocent human being was murdered simply for existing in their skin. As we process this tragedy, I encourage all of us to lean on each other for support, understanding, and compassion. 

For Black and Brown folks, this event may resonate even more deeply, highlighting the harsh realities of racial violence and injustice and resurfacing deep personal and generational trauma. The nature of today’s news cycle makes it almost impossible to insulate oneself from the horrific details of Sonya’s murder and the racist rhetoric that is inevitably spewed all over social media after a tragedy like this occurs. It is crucial that we acknowledge this impact and maintain spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. 

YW Boston’s partners and supporters are an exceptionally thoughtful, compassionate group of people and we have no doubt that you will make every effort to show up for your colleagues as this tragedy continues to unfold. But don’t forget to take care of yourselves or encourage your colleagues to take care of themselves. Some advice to share: 
 

• Do not watch or share the body cam footage of Sonya Massey’s murder: Exposure to violent and traumatic content, especially repeatedly, can have significant negative effects on mental health. Witnessing such traumatic events can cause vicarious trauma. This is especially pertinent for people who share a racial or cultural identity with the victims, as it can feel like an assault on their community.  

• Practice informed consent and fair warning: If you want to talk about this or other stressful news with a coworker, first ask them clearly and gently if they have the capacity to discuss the specific topic. If they do not, it is critical to thank them for letting you know and identify another support person with which to connect.  

• Respect individual needs: Grief and trauma affect everyone differently. Some may want to talk about their feelings, while others may prefer space and solitude. Respect each person’s way of coping. 

• Foster solidarity: Use this moment to reaffirm your commitment to eliminating racism, empowering women, and standing together against racism and injustice.  

• Practice self-care: Give yourself permission to rest and recharge. Take part in activities that make you feel good, such as exercise, laughing with a friend, or creating art. And don’t forget to tap into your organization’s self-care and mental health resources.  

Please take good care of yourselves and each other as you move through the rest of this week. Let’s honor Sonya’s memory by continuing to build a more compassionate, resilient, and equitable Boston. 

Sincerely, 

Kathryn Henderson, Interim President & CEO